McGregor vs Holloway 2: 13 Years Later, The Notorious Returns

Photo via UFC / Instagram

The MMA world is buzzing. After years of speculation and teases, Conor McGregor is officially stepping back into the Octagon. His opponent? Max Holloway, in a highly anticipated rematch set for the main event of UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas during International Fight Week.

The Original Clash

Back on August 17, 2013, at UFC Fight Night 26 in Boston, a young Conor McGregor faced a promising Max Holloway in a featherweight bout. McGregor, dealing with a torn ACL early in the fight, relied on superior wrestling and control to secure a unanimous decision victory (30-27, 30-27, 30-26). Holloway landed fewer strikes but showed resilience that hinted at his future greatness.

Photo via MMA Junkie / USA Today

Both men have since etched their names into UFC history. McGregor became the first simultaneous two-division champion, while Holloway reigned as featherweight king and delivered iconic performances, including his BMF title-winning knockout of Justin Gaethje.

Why This Rematch Hits Different

McGregor returns after a five-year absence, his last fight being the 2021 leg injury against Dustin Poirier. Holloway, ever the active warrior, brings recent high-level experience into this welterweight showdown. The fight moves up from their original 145-pound clash, promising power from both sides.

Trash talk is already heating up, with McGregor promising to dominate once more and Holloway ready to prove evolution. This isn't just a comeback; it's a legacy-defining collision.

Photo via Instagram / UFC content

Expect fireworks in a five-round main event that could steal the show during one of UFC's biggest weekends.

Watch highlights from their first meeting here: Full Fight | McGregor vs Holloway (2013)

What are your predictions for this blockbuster? Will The Notorious reclaim glory, or will Blessed spoil the return party? Drop your thoughts below and engage with the community.

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Sources

• Official UFC announcements and event details
• UFC Stats fight records
• Reports from Bloody Elbow, ESPN, and Forbes (May 2026)