Makhachev Responds To McGregor's Return

Islam Makhachev has welcomed Conor McGregor's comeback while making clear where he thinks the result against Max Holloway will go on July 11.

The UFC welterweight champion acknowledges the value McGregor brings to the sport as a name — and then delivers his honest assessment of what awaits him against Max Holloway.

"Yeah, it's good. Big name for our sport, but he have tough opponent. Max Holloway against Conor, I think Max can beat him," Makhachev said

The context behind Makhachev's prediction is grounded in how much has changed since the two men last shared the Octagon. McGregor was 25 when he beat a 21-year-old Holloway by unanimous decision on a preliminary card in 2013 — a featherweight bout between two prospects that neither man's current reputation was built on.

In the years since, Holloway became one of the UFC's most decorated fighters, claimed the featherweight title, fought for the lightweight title, and won the BMF belt before losing it to Charles Oliveira at UFC 326 in March. He has been in the sport's elite conversation continuously throughout a period when McGregor has fought just twice — both losses — and spent five years away from competition.

The McGregor who returns on July 11 is doing so after a broken leg, a cancelled comeback, and the longest absence of his career. Makhachev's reading of the matchup is not an outlier — it reflects a straightforward assessment of current form and activity. Despite this being the case, Conor says he is better than ever.

“Thank you for all the love, support, and encouragement over the last few days, people! I am feeling very energized entering intense training camp because of it! I am very grateful for the team I have around me. My coaches and training partners, we are all fully tuned in for the challenge at hand and it is a glorious time in our gym!

“Swipe to see an incredible snapshot of sparring with my long-time training partner and friend, Nicolo Solli, who is in phenomenal condition pushing me hard, with coaches monitoring our every exchange. I am better than ever, and I relish the opportunity to once again show my mastery in martial arts to the world,” McGregor