Former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway has made it clear that he wants another shot at Conor McGregor after their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 329 ended in disappointing fashion. What was expected to be an explosive showdown between two of the biggest names in mixed martial arts lasted just 69 seconds after McGregor suffered a leg injury early in the opening round. The fight was waved off, handing Holloway the victory by TKO, but leaving both fighters and fans without the competitive battle they had hoped for.
Although Holloway got his revenge for the unanimous decision loss he suffered to McGregor back in 2013, the Hawaiian superstar admitted the victory didn’t feel complete. Instead of celebrating the quick finish, Holloway immediately called for a trilogy bout to settle the rivalry once and for all.
Speaking after the fight, Holloway said he would gladly run it back once McGregor has recovered from surgery, believing both fighters deserve the opportunity to compete without injuries deciding the outcome. Before UFC 329, Holloway had already expressed interest in facing McGregor again, describing it as both unfinished business and one of the biggest fights available in the UFC.
McGregor has since confirmed that he will undergo surgery before beginning his rehabilitation, but remains determined to return to the Octagon to complete the final fight on his UFC contract. His recovery timeline remains uncertain, although he has insisted he is not ready to walk away from the sport.
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The result leaves the rivalry perfectly balanced at 1-1. McGregor won their first meeting in 2013 by unanimous decision, while Holloway claimed victory in the rematch after the injury stoppage. With neither fighter able to prove superiority in a full contest, many fans believe a third fight is the only way to provide a definitive conclusion.
Whether the UFC decides to book the trilogy immediately or wait until McGregor has fully recovered remains to be seen. However, Holloway has made one thing abundantly clear: he doesn’t want the story between himself and “The Notorious” to end with an injury.
If the UFC grants his wish, fight fans could eventually witness one of the most anticipated trilogy bouts in recent memory.
