Joe Rogan makes Conor McGregor UFC comeback prediction
Joe Rogan believes Max Holloway will have the advantage at UFC 329, primarily due to his recent activity in the octagon.Conor McGregor — a former two-division UFC champion — will step back into the cage for the first time in five years when he faces Holloway in a welterweight bout on July 11 in Las Vegas. The Irishman, who celebrates his 38th birthday just three days after his matchup with the Hawaiian, hasn't competed since suffering a first-round loss to Dustin Poirier in 2021 after breaking his leg.The 'Notorious' hasn't secured a victory in the cage since his knockout of Donald Cerrone in under a minute six years ago. He was scheduled to return two years ago against Michael Chandler, but had to pull out of the bout after suffering a training injury.Since McGregor's last appearance, Holloway has competed eight times — securing victories over fighters including Yair Rodriguez, Arnold Allen, Justin Gaethje and Poirier. Popular UFC commentator Joe Rogan has shared his thoughts on the upcoming bout for the first time ahead of the highly anticipated rematch, which McGregor won back in 2013.Rogan maintains that Holloway's consistent activity will ensure he's in optimal condition for his bout with McGregor."This Conor McGregor fight in July is gonna be bananas, it's gonna be bananas. People are gonna go crazy for the return of Conor McGregor because he's a giant personality," said Rogan."How could we (expect the same McGregor), he hasn't fought in five years. Five f------ years ago. The thing is about Max Holloway is that he isn't that much younger than Conor, but Max has been in constant high-level competition the entire time."He won the BMF title, beat Dustin, constant high-level competition, it's a different thing. This is 170lbs, which is even better, no weight cutting at all. And also, knowing this is such a high-profile fight, he's going to be in f------ insane shape."Numerous fans have expressed concern ahead of the matchup, suggesting that McGregor appears somewhat "slow" after the Irishman recently shared training footage.Despite his detractors, the Irishman remains confident that he's feeling refreshed and eager to compete in his first fight in five years.In a recent social media post, he wrote: "Thank you for all the love, support, and encouragement over the last few days, people!"I am feeling very energised entering intense training camp because of it! I am very grateful for the team I have around me. My coaches and training partners, we are all fully tuned in for the challenge at hand and it is a glorious time in our gym!"Swipe to see an incredible snap shot of sparring with my long time training partner and friend, @nicolosolli_mma, who is in phenomenal condition pushing me hard, with coaches monitoring our every exchange."I am better than ever, and I relish the opportunity to once again show my mastery in martial arts to the world. Lord Jesus in your name, please, to inspire the next generation to come! Amen."
