Islam Makhachev has no issue with Conor McGregor making his comeback.
McGregor is set to return to the Octagon in the UFC 329 main event on July 11. He will face Max Holloway in a rematch. The two first did battle back in 2013 and it was the “Notorious” one who earned the unanimous decision win.
Makhachev was interviewed by TNT Sports and was asked for his thoughts on McGregor’s return fight. The reigning UFC welterweight titleholder isn’t opposed to the comeback, but he thinks it’ll be an uphill battle for the Irishman.
“Yeah, it’s good,” Makhachev said. “Big name for our sport, but he have tough opponent. Max Holloway against Conor, I think Max can beat him.”
McGregor has been out of action since breaking his leg in a 2021 trilogy bout against Dustin Poirier. A 2024 return against Michael Chandler was planned, but the fight was derailed due to an injury. Some fans are wondering if McGregor vs. Holloway 2 will ultimately go through, but “Mystic Mac” expects to return to form on fight night.
During a recent Kick stream, Holloway revealed that he had to keep his clash with McGregor secret for several months. He admitted that it was getting tiring to keep the bout hidden from the public eye, but now he doesn’t have to deal with that stress.
As for Makhachev, his first 170-pound title defense hasn’t been announced. Names such as Ian Machado Garry and Michael Morales have been thrown around by fans as potential contenders. Carlos Prates has also emerged as a wild card option.
Makhachev won the UFC Welterweight Championship back in Nov. 2025. He turned in a one-sided grappling affair against Jack Della Maddalena in the UFC 322 main event to capture the gold.
If Conor McGregor pulls it off against Max Holloway, who would you like to see him fight next? Sound off in the comments below.