McGregor and Holloway clash in tense pre-fight face-off ahead of UFC 329 rematch

Conor McGregor and Max Holloway engaged in a heated verbal exchange during their face-off on Thursday, prompting officials to separate the two fighters. The confrontation precedes their scheduled rematch at UFC 329, where McGregor will seek to avenge his 2013 decision-win over Holloway.

McGregor, 37, has not competed since 2021 and has lost three of his last four UFC fights, holding a career record of 22-6. Holloway, 34, most recently fell to a unanimous decision against Charles Oliveira in March and carries a 27-9 record. Both athletes are former UFC champions.

Analysts note that while McGregor retains knockout power, his extended layoff raises questions about his performance beyond the early rounds, whereas Holloway’s stamina could give him an edge in longer fights.

"He was talking about some contract stuff, how he doesn't want to wait a year [to fight again]," Holloway told reporters. "I told him, 'Don't need to worry, bro. I got you.' I go out there and get my hand raised in some crazy fashion, poke the bear a little bit more [with McGregor], poke [UFC CEO] Dana White, and we do Allegiant Stadium in December."