McGregor vs. Holloway 2: 13 years later, everything has changed

When Conor McGregor and Max Holloway first met in 2013, it was a fight between two rising prospects. Thirteen years later, it’s a completely different story.

Now headlining UFC 329 in Las Vegas, the rematch carries legacy implications, comeback questions, and a genuine clash between two of the most iconic fighters of their era.

A rematch years in the making

Back in 2013, McGregor defeated a then-21-year-old Holloway by decision at UFC Fight Night 26. At the time, McGregor was beginning his rise to superstardom while Holloway was still learning on the job. Since then, their careers have gone in opposite, but equally fascinating, directions.

McGregor became the UFC’s biggest global star, capturing titles in two weight classes and redefining the sport’s commercial reach. Holloway, meanwhile, built himself into one of the greatest featherweights ever, known for his volume striking, durability, and legendary title reign.

This time, instead of being simply prospect vs. prospect, it’s superstar vs. proven all-time great.

What’s at stake at UFC 329?

At stake for McGregor is his relevance. After years away from the Octagon, questions remain about whether he can still compete at the highest level. A win over Holloway would instantly put him back in the title conversation and silence the doubters.

For Holloway, the stakes are different. He’s already cemented his legacy, but beating McGregor, especially in a rematch, would add a defining chapter to his career and potentially close the door on the long-running “what if” debates.

Expert take: Holloway the favorite?

Former fighter and analyst Chael Sonnen didn’t hold back when breaking down the matchup. He claimed Holloway has “the clearest path to victory in UFC main event history.”

It’s a bold statement, but not without logic. Holloway’s cardio, output, and durability could pose serious problems for McGregor, especially if the fight goes into later rounds. Still, counting McGregor out has never been a safe bet. His precision striking and knockout power remain fight-changing weapons.

How to watch McGregor vs. Holloway 2

The fight headlines UFC 329, part of International Fight Week in Las Vegas.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
• Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas

Start times:

• Main card: 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT / 2 a.m. BST (Sunday)
• Expected main event walkouts: around 11:30 p.m. ET (depending on earlier fights)

Where to watch:

• U.S.: Paramount+
• UK: TNT Sports Box Office

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.