McGregor-Holloway rematch: Conor returns at UFC 329 in Las Vegas

Return announcement

The official confirmation came from the UFC on May 17, 2026. The 329th event will take place on July 11 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The main event of the evening will be a rematch between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway in the welterweight division. For the Irishman, this will be his first appearance in the octagon since his defeat by Dustin Poirier in the summer of 2021.¹

The story of the first fight

McGregor defeated Holloway by decision in 2013. At the time, Holloway was just starting out in the division, while McGregor was already showing off his signature style of fast punches and confident distance play. In thirteen years, both fighters have come a long way, winning titles and suffering defeats that changed their approach to fighting.

McGregor's path after 2021

The Irishman has ended his last four fights with three early losses. After losing to Poirier, McGregor focused on recovery and business projects. In 2025, he held several open training sessions in Dublin, where he demonstrated improved endurance and clinch work. Experts note that the 37-year-old fighter looks more relaxed and technically balanced.⁴

Current form of Max Holloway

Holloway lost the BMF title in March 2026 in a duel with Charles Oliveira. Before that, he lost by knockout to Ilya Topuria. At the same time, he still has bright victories to his credit - a knockout of Justin Gaethje and a trilogy win over Poirier. The American is known for his incredible endurance and ability to fight at high speeds for all five rounds.³

Preparing for UFC 329

Organizers are planning a massive show as part of International Fight Week. More than 20 spectators are expected to come to the arena. Tickets went on sale on May 20 and sold out in a record 48 hours. McGregor has already arrived in Las Vegas for a media day scheduled for May 25. Holloway trains with Gracie's team in Hawaii and plans to fly in two weeks before the fight.²

Expert ratings and rates

Bookmakers currently favor McGregor at 1,85 to win. Analysts from ESPN and MMA Fighting point to the Irishman's experience in big fights, but note that Holloway could use his punching volume advantage. Many believe the fight will last all five rounds.

Impact on the welterweight division

The winner of this fight will earn a title shot against the reigning champion. Tournament 329 will also feature several other important fights, including the participation of young talents from Europe and Latin America. The UFC expects McGregor's return to increase interest in the division for the next two years.

Sources

1. Official UFC press release
2. ESPN MMA
3. MMA fighting
4. The Athletic