Pimblett gives McGregor two rounds to beat Holloway

Paddy Pimblett has backed Conor McGregor to finish Max Holloway early but expects the former featherweight champion to take control if the fight extends beyond the second round.

“If Conor is gonna win, it's going to have to be in the first two rounds. If it goes past that, I think Max will probably take over.”

— Paddy Pimblett, via ESPN

What Paddy Pimblett said

McGregor faces Holloway in his return bout after a lengthy absence from competition. The lightweight told ESPN his prediction hinges on the Irishman's ability to close the show quickly, before Holloway's volume and conditioning become decisive factors.

What it moves

The forecast reflects the wider view that McGregor's best path is a fast knockout before ring rust sets in. Holloway has not been stopped since his featherweight title reign, making the opening exchanges the likely flashpoint for the result.

Source: espn.com. Full Paddy Pimblett fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.