Conor McGregor hasn't stepped into the Octagon in over five years, but his upcoming opponent, Max Holloway, isn't banking on ring rust slowing down the notorious Irishman.
Ahead of their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 329 this Saturday, Holloway made it clear that he expects to face a razor-sharp and incredibly dangerous "Mystic Mac." The two fighters first clashed over a decade ago in 2013, a bout that saw McGregor walk away with a unanimous decision victory. While Holloway admits he expected a rematch to materialize much sooner, he certainly didn't anticipate it happening after such a prolonged absence for the sport's biggest star.
Despite the long layoff, "Blessed" is thrilled to be the man welcoming the former double-champ back to the cage. However, the Hawaiian fighter says his hospitality ends the moment the bell rings.
"I can't wait to punch the guy in the face," Holloway stated. He acknowledged that the five-year break might have actually rejuvenated McGregor, potentially bringing out the absolute best version of the superstar. Still, Holloway is oozing confidence, predicting that he will be the one getting his hand raised this time—and he plans to do it in "devastating fashion."
Beyond the personal redemption and the massive payday that inevitably accompanies a McGregor fight, Holloway is gunning for performance bonuses. If his pre-fight mindset is any indication, fight fans are in for an explosive showdown when these two legends finally run it back this weekend.