Updated
Updated · MMA Fighting · Jul 6
Volkanovski Backs Holloway to Beat McGregor at UFC 329 After 5-Year Layoff
Updated
Updated · MMA Fighting · Jul 6

Volkanovski Backs Holloway to Beat McGregor at UFC 329 After 5-Year Layoff

3 articles · Updated · MMA Fighting · Jul 6

Summary

  • Five days before UFC 329, Alexander Volkanovski picked Max Holloway to defeat Conor McGregor in Saturday’s Las Vegas main event, saying Holloway could even score a finish.
  • Volkanovski said McGregor, 37, should still be dangerous early but doubted he can regain the sharp timing he had before a five-year absence caused by the leg break against Dustin Poirier.
  • Holloway, 34, also carries wear from 16 years as a pro, Volkanovski said, but he expects Holloway’s improved defense and durability to help him survive early shots and take over later in the first round.
  • The matchup marks McGregor’s first fight since his 2021 loss to Poirier, with Volkanovski warning that Holloway cannot simply pressure recklessly against a still-powerful counter striker.

Insights

Ring rust versus raw power: Which will decide Conor McGregor's high-stakes welterweight return this Saturday?
Will McGregor's five-year layoff be a hidden advantage, allowing his body to fully heal for an epic comeback?
As UFC ditches pay-per-view, will this legendary rematch redefine how fans watch major fights forever?