More than a decade after their first fight, Max Holloway is open to sharing the cage again with Conor McGregor.
McGregor defeated Holloway by unanimous decision in 2013. After that loss, Holloway went on an incredible run, putting together 13 straight wins and later becoming UFC featherweight champion. McGregor also captured UFC gold during his career, but the two fighters never met again.
Now, with McGregor planning a return, Holloway says the opportunity is too big to ignore.
“You have to take that fight”
Holloway recently spoke about the possibility of a rematch and made his feelings clear.
“The belt is definitely the goal, but I also have the BMF title, which I’m super proud of, and it opens up a lot of really interesting fights,” Holloway said. “Then we have a certain Conor McGregor wanting to make his return to the cage. You know, I’d be lying if I said I wouldn’t take that fight.”
He added even stronger words about facing McGregor again.
“It’s Conor McGregor man, you have to take that fight. We obviously have our history, and I think it would be great at the White House.”
Holloway believes a major setting like the White House would match the size of the event and the name involved.
Before anything else, Holloway is preparing to defend his BMF championship against Charles Oliveira. Oliveira is a former UFC lightweight champion and one of the most accomplished submission fighters in the sport.
Holloway understands that big fights only happen if he continues winning. For now, his attention is on the task in front of him.
Other names in the picture
Holloway also mentioned past connections with Khabib Nurmagomedov, who is retired, and current welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
“Another one I had history with is Khabib (Nurmagomedov). You know, he’s retired, but I feel like Islam (Makhachev) is part of that team, and I’d like a shot at Islam, as well. I think we’re in a really great position with some exciting fights ahead.”
While Nurmagomedov has stepped away from competition, Makhachev remains active and is widely viewed as one of the top fighters in the world.
McGregor has not fought since suffering a leg injury in 2021. Since recovering, he has spoken several times about coming back to the Octagon, though no official opponent has been announced.
If the opportunity presents itself, Holloway has made his stance clear. Because of their shared history and McGregor’s star power, it is a fight he would accept without hesitation.
