Conor McGregor’s only chance against Max Holloway is first-round blitz, says former UFC champion

Conor McGregor will need a sensational opening round against Max Holloway, at least that’s what Belal Muhammad believes is needed to ensure victory.

UFC 329 will see McGregor return to the spotlight for his first bout since 2021. A leg break kept McGregor out of action, but he was set for a 2024 showdown with Michael Chandler. An injury setback forced the matchup to be cancelled, but the “Notorious” one is finally ready to step back inside the Octagon against Max Holloway to cap off International Fight Week on Saturday.

In an analysis video posted on his YouTube channel, former welterweight champion Muhammad questioned which version of McGregor will show up on Saturday (via MMAJunkie).

“Let’s see what McGregor shows up. It’s been five years. We don’t know if he’s coming up with new things, new style, new person. So, let’s get a couple of reads in that first round. Once it gets to the later rounds, pick up the volume, turn it up.”

Muhammad then laid out the ideal strategy for McGregor, which involves catching “Blessed” sleeping early in hopes of scoring an early finish.

“For McGregor, I think we gotta go all in,” Muhammad said. “This first round, those first five minutes, try to knock him out. Try to hurt him. We’ve seen it’s possible now, right? Topuria knocked him out. Before that, we thought Holloway had the best chin in the world, can’t get knocked out; now we see it’s possible. Just gotta find that spot.”

BJPenn.com is keeping you up to speed on the latest UFC 329 updates leading up to Saturday. Stay locked in on our homepage for the latest tidbits, including the weigh-ins and live event coverage.

Do you think Conor McGregor will get off to a strong start in his return, or will Max Holloway spoil the party in Las Vegas? Comment below.