Max Holloway planned for middleweight debut almost a decade ago, claims UFC 329 commentator Jon Anik

Max Holloway will be making his welterweight debut on Saturday, but could you imagine “Blessed” at 185 pounds instead?

Ahead of the UFC 329 main event clash with Conor McGregor, play-by-play ace Jon Anik turned some heads with a recent claim about a conversation he once had with Holloway. Serving as a guest on “Submission Radio.” Anik recalled having a chat that is nearing a decade old where “Blessed” told him he envisioned a bout in the middleweight division before he walks away from MMA competition (via MMAFighting).

“Max Holloway said to me probably 8 or 9 years ago that he was going to take a UFC fight at middleweight before all was said and done,” Anik said. “So I’m fascinated to see how his frame looks on the scale and what he looks like as a UFC welterweight. He could easily pivot back to 155 pounds, but in this matchup, I think it’s not crazy that it stands to reason to benefit Holloway a whole bunch.”

Anik will be on the call for the UFC 329 showdown between Holloway and McGregor. The longtime commentator noted that one would be wise not to dismiss Holloway’s size, and he doesn’t believe the Hawaiian bruiser will lose a step at 170 pounds.

“McGregor has the history at welterweight in the UFC. Even though I think we can all agree Conor McGregor’s best weight class is 155 pounds, as could be Holloway’s. But dude, Max’s a big boy. Big, powerful hands, and I think his movement and his speed and his footwork will all still be there.

“So, raise your hand if you’re excited to see Holloway at 170. Yes, count me among them. And hey, I wouldn’t put it past him to fight at 185 before it’s all said and done.”

Holloway is in search of a vintage performance after he failed to get much going in his last outing against Charles Oliveira. He will be dealing with someone who wants to prove he’s still elite despite a five-year absence. How Holloway ultimately looks in the welterweight division will be a story to follow leading up to fight night.

Do you expect Max Holloway to dabble in the middleweight division eventually, or should he avoid such a leap? Let us know what you think in the comments below.