Islam Makhachev Says Conor McGregor’s Return Is Good for MMA — But Picks Max Holloway to Win
Islam Makhachev believes Conor McGregor’s return is good for the sport, even if he is not picking the Irish superstar to win.
Speaking about McGregor potentially coming back to MMA, Makhachev admitted that Conor remains a major name and that his presence brings attention to the sport.
“It’s good, big name for our sport,” Makhachev said.
But when asked about a possible fight with Max Holloway, Islam gave a clear prediction.
“I think Max can beat him.”
That short comment adds another interesting layer to one of the biggest possible comeback fights the UFC could make.
Makhachev Understands McGregor’s Star Power
Even though Makhachev and McGregor come from very different eras and styles, Islam clearly understands what Conor means to MMA.
McGregor is not just another former champion. He is one of the biggest stars the sport has ever seen. Whenever his name is attached to a fight, fans react immediately. His return would bring mainstream attention, huge promotion, and a level of energy few fighters can create.
That is why Makhachev sees it as a positive for the sport.
Whether fans love McGregor or criticize him, his comeback would get people watching.
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Islam Picks Max Holloway
The more interesting part of Makhachev’s comment is his belief that Max Holloway can beat McGregor.
That prediction makes sense when looking at where both fighters are today. Holloway has stayed active, tested himself against elite competition, and continued to show incredible toughness, cardio, and striking volume.
McGregor, meanwhile, has spent a long time away from consistent competition. His power and timing may still be dangerous, but returning against someone like Holloway would be a serious challenge.
Max is not an easy comeback fight for anyone.
McGregor vs Holloway 2 Has Real History
A rematch between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway would carry major storylines.
They first fought years ago, when both were still rising in the UFC. McGregor won that fight, but both men changed completely after that. Conor became a two-division UFC champion and global superstar. Holloway became one of the greatest featherweights of his era and built a reputation as one of the toughest fighters in MMA.
That history makes the rematch much bigger than a normal fight.
For McGregor, it would be a chance to prove he can still beat elite names. For Holloway, it would be a chance to avenge an early-career loss and defeat one of the sport’s biggest stars.
Holloway’s style could create serious problems for McGregor.
Max brings pressure, volume, durability, and pace. He is known for forcing opponents into long fights and making them work every second. If McGregor cannot hurt him early, Holloway could drag the fight into deeper rounds and take over with activity.
McGregor’s best chance would likely come from his accuracy and punching power. At his peak, Conor’s left hand was one of the most dangerous weapons in MMA. But against Holloway, he would need more than one big shot. He would need sharp timing, strong cardio, and defensive discipline.
That is why Makhachev’s pick is interesting. He seems to believe Holloway’s current form gives him the advantage.
Makhachev’s reaction shows the bigger picture.
Even if he believes Holloway wins, he still sees McGregor’s return as valuable for MMA. Big names bring more eyes. More eyes bring more attention to the sport. And when Conor McGregor is involved, the entire fight world pays attention.
That is why a McGregor comeback will always matter.
It is not only about whether he wins or loses. It is about the event, the buildup, the conversations, and the spotlight he brings with him.
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Islam Makhachev gave a balanced take on Conor McGregor’s return.
He respects the attention McGregor brings and says it is good for the sport. But when it comes to a potential fight with Max Holloway, Islam is siding with Max.
That prediction will only add more debate among fans.
McGregor still has the name, power, and history. Holloway has the activity, pace, and momentum.
If the rematch happens, it will not just be a comeback fight — it will be one of the biggest MMA stories of the year.
