Max Holloway to Michael Chandler “Keep Hoping, Man”
Max Holloway had a clear message for Michael Chandler after Chandler once again missed out on a fight with Conor McGregor. Speaking recently, Holloway reflected on how long it took for his own rematch with McGregor to finally happen.
“I saw a couple of interviews with Michael Chandler where he’s saying he’s gonna get the fight,” Holloway said. “Keep hoping, man. He’s a strong believer — anything can happen.”
Holloway then pointed out the long wait he himself went through before getting another shot at McGregor.
“I thought the fight would happen like five or six years ago,” he continued, “and now, thirteen years later, I’m rematching this guy. This is crazy.”
Holloway ended his comments with some advice for Chandler, telling him to stay ready no matter what.
“To Chandler, keep training,” Holloway said. “You never know what happens.”
The message was delivered in a calm but direct way. Holloway wasn’t mocking Chandler, but he was making it clear that in MMA, things don’t always go according to plan. Fights that fans expect to happen can take years — or sometimes never happen at all.
Holloway knows this better than most. He and McGregor were supposed to fight again much earlier in their careers. Instead, it took over a decade for the rematch to finally be booked. That long journey gave Holloway a realistic view of how unpredictable the sport can be.
By telling Chandler to “keep hoping,” Holloway was acknowledging Chandler’s belief while also reminding everyone that nothing is guaranteed. Chandler has been vocal about wanting the McGregor fight for years, but timing, injuries, and other opportunities have always gotten in the way.
Holloway’s comments serve as both a reality check and a bit of motivation. He’s essentially saying that if Chandler stays ready and keeps believing, who knows what could happen down the line.
For now, though, Holloway is focused on his own fight with McGregor. And based on his words, he’s not taking anything for granted — because in this sport, you never really know what’s coming next.
What do you think about Holloway’s message to Chandler? Do you believe Chandler will ever get his shot at Conor McGregor? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
