Max Holloway is ready to verbally spar with Conor McGregor ahead of UFC 329: ‘I love s***-talking, too’

Max Holloway is prepared to engage in a verbal exchange with Conor McGregor ahead of their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 329 on July 11 at Las Vegas's T-Mobile Arena. The bout marks their second meeting—a rematch of their 2013 fight before either became UFC champion—and notably represents McGregor's return after five years away from competition following his leg injury against Dustin Poirier in 2021.

While some observers question McGregor's readiness after such an extended layoff, Holloway has expressed confidence in his opponent's preparation, noting that McGregor appears dedicated based on his public training posts. "I'm getting ready for the best Conor McGregor there is," Holloway said on his YouTube channel. "I know he's taking it serious. It looks like he's taking it very serious, and I'm excited for the challenge."

Though McGregor won their first encounter, both men have evolved considerably—each accomplishing nearly everything the sport offers. McGregor famously revolutionized UFC's approach to promotion through trash-talk, and he has already begun needling Holloway since the rematch was announced. Holloway, typically measured in the lead-up to fights, signaled he may embrace a different persona this time. "Conor McGregor is Conor McGregor," Holloway explained. "I think he'll be respectful to a certain point, but dude has the gift of gab. So, if he starts talking, you might actually see a little bit of Waiʻanae boy come out of me for this one. Because not many of you guys know, if you guys want to shit-talk, I love shit-talking too."

Holloway envisions a striking-heavy showcase between two skilled mixed martial artists competing at a weight where both arrive healthy. "I'm going out there, I'm not looking for a long time in there," Holloway said. "I'm looking for a big finish. International Fight Week, it's going to be a huge crowd, huge fight, and I want to leave it with a bang."