Conor McGregor's UFC Return: The Numbers That Define McGregor Vs. Holloway 2
Conor McGregor's UFC 329 return against Max Holloway comes with wild numbers: a five-year layoff, a 13-year rematch and Holloway's all-time significant-strikes record.
Brian Mazique, Contributor
Forbes
2 min read
6/10
Key Takeaways
Conor McGregor has not fought since July 2021, a layoff of five years and four months heading into UFC 329.
The rematch against Max Holloway occurs 13 years and five months after their first fight at UFC Fight Night 26 in August 2013.
Max Holloway holds the UFC record for most significant strikes landed in promotional history with 3,317.
McGregor is the only fighter to have knocked out Holloway, doing so in the first round of their initial meeting.
UFC 329 is projected to generate over two million pay-per-view buys, potentially becoming the highest-grossing event in UFC history.
The numbers behind Conor McGregor's UFC return are staggering. After a five-year layoff, the Irish superstar will face Max Holloway at UFC 329 in a rematch 13 years in the making. McGregor (22-6) last fought in July 2021, when he suffered a gruesome leg break in his trilogy with Dustin Poirier. The fight against Holloway comes more than a decade after their first meeting in 2013, which McGregor won by unanimous decision. Holloway (26-7) has since become one of the most prolific strikers in UFC history, holding the all-time record for significant strikes landed (3,317). The rematch, set for late 2026, is expected to be one of the biggest pay-per-view events in combat sports history. McGregor's return comes at a pivotal time for the UFC, which has seen a surge in new stars and global interest. The fight also carries deep narrative weight: McGregor remains the only fighter to knock out Holloway, having done so in their first bout. For Holloway, it's a chance to avenge that loss and cement his legacy. For McGregor, it's an opportunity to reclaim relevance after years of injuries, legal troubles, and business ventures. UFC president Dana White has called the matchup "a gift to fans." The fight's financial impact is expected to break records, with analysts projecting over 2 million pay-per-view buys. Both fighters have been training extensively: McGregor has bulked up to lightweight, while Holloway has maintained his relentless pace at featherweight. The bout will likely determine the next title challenger in the lightweight division. Critics question whether McGregor can still compete at an elite level after such a long layoff, but his camp insists he is healthier and more focused than ever. Holloway, meanwhile, is riding a three-fight win streak and has not lost a non-championship fight since 2013. The winner could face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title in early 2027. UFC 329 is expected to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with a date likely in December 2026. The fight represents a crossroads for both men: a victory for McGregor could launch a title run, while a win for Holloway would silence doubters about his ability to perform at lightweight. Whatever the outcome, the numbers alone—five years, 13 years, 3,317 strikes—paint a picture of a fight that transcends sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conor McGregor is scheduled to return at UFC 329, expected in late 2026. He will face Max Holloway in a lightweight bout.
The rematch comes 13 years after their first fight, which McGregor won by knockout. Holloway now holds the record for most significant strikes in UFC history, adding historic stakes.
McGregor has been out of action for five years since his last fight in July 2021 against Dustin Poirier, where he suffered a broken leg.
Max Holloway holds the UFC record for most significant strikes landed with 3,317, a testament to his volume striking and durability.
Early odds favor Max Holloway due to McGregor's long layoff and Holloway's recent winning streak, but betting lines are expected to shift closer to the fight.
Yes, the winner is expected to challenge Islam Makhachev for the UFC lightweight championship in early 2027.
