McGregor's trainer: Irish star in best shape ever before UFC 329

Conor McGregor's longtime coach believes the former two-division champion is in career-best condition ahead of his UFC 329 return against Max Holloway next month.

Julian Dalby told Sherdog.com that McGregor has never appeared more physically prepared than he does now, five years removed from his last Octagon appearance. "Conor's in fantastic shape… I've never seen him look so good before," Dalby said in a UFC 329 countdown feature. "Combining Conor's accuracy with the power that he has now, he's unstoppable."

Welterweight power advantage looms for McGregor camp

The 37-year-old Irishman will meet Holloway at 170 pounds, a division McGregor has fought in before but one Holloway is entering for the first time. Dalby and his fighter both expect the added weight to play into McGregor's hands. "I'm a lot more skilled," McGregor said, per the report. "You don't want to be anywhere inside that Octagon with me… I'm dangerous everywhere."

McGregor went further, warning that Holloway will face a different version of the man he first met years ago. "I can knock you unconscious from everywhere inside that Octagon," he added. "There's a different animal entirely that is in front of Max Holloway here. And he's going to feel every bit of it."

UFC 329 takes place Saturday, July 11 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Original reporting:

• sherdog.com — Conor McGregor's trainer in advance of UFC 329: This is the best shape he’s ever been in