Eddie Alvarez doubts Conor McGregor UFC 329 comeback

Eddie Alvarez does not like Conor McGregor's chances when he returns from a five-year layoff this summer.

McGregor faces Max Holloway in the main event of UFC 329 on July 11 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, according to MMA Fighting. Alvarez, who fought McGregor a decade ago at UFC 205, told Full Send MMA that five years away from the sport is simply too long to recapture championship form.

Alvarez on fighting as a lifestyle commitment

"You're either in this life or you're not," Alvarez said on the podcast, per the report. "It's not something you can just pick up and put down. You are a fighter, and it takes years to become that character, and once you get out of that character, it's very difficult to get back into it."

The former lightweight champion acknowledged that McGregor picked the right opponent stylistically. Holloway's striking-heavy approach guarantees a standup fight where McGregor remains most comfortable, Alvarez noted, eliminating any wrestling or grappling threats. That choice plays to McGregor's strengths in what will essentially be a boxing match with four-ounce gloves.

Alvarez credited McGregor's obsessiveness as his best asset for a comeback but said Holloway's activity advantage — fighting elite competition consistently while McGregor sat out — tips the scales. "I just think it might be too much too soon," he said. "Once you put it down, it's down."

McGregor and Holloway first fought in 2013, with McGregor winning by decision. Both have since built Hall of Fame resumes, though only one stayed active through 2026.

Photo: Cpl. Samantha Sanchez / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain

Original reporting:

• mmafighting.com — Morning Report | Eddie Alvarez questions Conor McGregor’s return: ‘You’re either in this life or you’re not’ | MMA Fighting