Max Holloway is focused on welcoming Conor McGregor back to the Octagon at UFC 329, but he is not ruling out a longer stay at welterweight. As he prepares for his first appearance at 170 pounds, the former featherweight champion says his future will depend on what opportunities come next.
Holloway and McGregor headline UFC 329 on July 11 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in a five-round welterweight bout.
Holloway keeping his options open
Although Holloway has spent most of his recent career competing at lightweight, he told MMA Junkie that he is not ready to say whether his welterweight debut will be a one-time move.
“We’ll see what happens,”
“Never say never. I’m not a guy that wants to jump to conclusions. We’ll do what we do and we’re going to figure it out after that.”
The Hawaiian also acknowledged the ongoing discussion surrounding the winner of the McGregor fight. He noted that several possible matchups are already being mentioned despite the contest taking place at welterweight.
“I see a lot of people talking about the winner of this could even go and jump to see Islam. At the end of the day, I don’t know what’s going on. We’ll see.”
Confident despite the move to 170 pounds
McGregor has previous experience fighting at welterweight, but Holloway does not believe the size difference will determine the outcome when they meet in Las Vegas.
“Weight is nothing but a number,”
“Everyone is saying, ‘Small this, small that.’ We’re going to find out Saturday night. It is what it is.”
“I can’t wait. I’m grateful that UFC blessed me with this opportunity and good news. At the end of the day, I just can’t wait to go out there and have some fun.”