Analysts weigh Conor McGregor's comeback and Max Holloway's stakes at UFC 329

UFC 329 will feature Conor McGregor's first fight since 2020 as he steps into the octagon to face longtime rival Max Holloway. Both fighters are past their prime, with McGregor approaching his 38th birthday and having not won in over six years, while Holloway is 34 and moving up to welterweight for the bout.

Analysts said McGregor's realistic goal is simply to appear competitive and avoid a decisive defeat, which could preserve his marketability for future superfights outside the UFC. > "If he even looks competitive and not like a shell of his former self, that would be a huge win for McGregor," said Jed Meshew. > "Not getting dominated and finished inside five rounds" was Damon Martin's minimal expectation.

For Holloway, a loss could jeopardize his standing and accelerate retirement considerations, though his popularity would likely remain intact. Meshew warned that a defeat would be "catastrophic" for Holloway, while Martin noted that a loss would place him in a vulnerable position for upcoming lightweight contenders.

The event also includes a heavyweight bout featuring Olympic gold-medalist Gable Steveson against Elisha Ellison, which analysts view as a potential spark for a division they deem currently weak. Other highlighted matchups are King Green vs. Terrance McKinney and the co-main event between Benoit Saint-Denis and Paddy Pimblett, both described as compelling fights that add depth to an otherwise strong card.