Conor McGregor is finally expected to return to the Octagon on July 11 when he faces Max Holloway at UFC 329. But according to Matt Brown, the stakes surrounding the fight are far bigger than just a win or loss. After years of injuries, delays, and uncertainty, Brown believes this comeback could define how fans view the rest of McGregor’s career.
Matt Brown Questions McGregor’s Future
Speaking on The Fighter vs. The Writer via MMAFighting.com, Brown said another failed comeback attempt would likely end all chances of McGregor ever fighting again.
“If he doesn’t make this walk, I think it’s going to be unanimous agreement he’s done and he’s never fighting again.”
Brown also warned that losing to Holloway could seriously damage McGregor’s status as a top-level fighter.
“If he loses this fight, his relevance as a world-class competitor pretty much drops off the map.”
At the same time, Brown admitted McGregor’s superstar appeal will continue drawing attention no matter what happens.
“He’s a big enough star, he could fight and lose the next five or 10 times and people will still watch.”
What to expect from McGregor vs. Holloway at UFC 329
The fight is expected to take place at welterweight and could look very different from the first meeting between McGregor and Holloway back in 2013.
McGregor enters the matchup carrying massive questions after five years away from competition, while Holloway arrives as one of the most experienced and battle-tested fighters in the UFC.
Fans can likely expect Holloway to push a relentless pace with high-volume striking and pressure over five rounds. McGregor, meanwhile, will likely try to make his power and timing count early. After all, he has historically been most dangerous in the early rounds.
The matchup also carries major implications for the UFC’s star power moving forward. A McGregor victory could instantly place him back into the title conversation and reignite interest in several blockbuster fights.
A Holloway win, however, could officially mark the end of McGregor’s run as a legitimate championship-level contender.