Max Holloway training with Jack Della Maddalena ahead of McGregor fight at UFC 329

Max Holloway has enlisted welterweight contender Jack Della Maddalena as a key training partner as he finalizes preparations for his rematch with Conor McGregor at UFC 329, scheduled for July 11, 2026.

Holloway, 34, enters the bout ranked fourth in the lightweight division and ninth on the pound-for-pound rankings, carrying a 27-9 record. The Hawaiian fighter, who trains out of Gracie Technics, is one of the most prolific volume strikers in the sport, averaging 7.2 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy. That output makes him one of the more demanding opponents any camp could prepare for, and securing a sharp partner ahead of this rematch speaks to the seriousness of his preparation.

Della Maddalena, 29, brings elite striking credentials of his own. The Australian ranks fourth in the welterweight division and 13th pound-for-pound with an 18-4 record. Fighting out of Scrappy MMA in a switch stance, he lands 5.57 significant strikes per minute at an accuracy rate of 51 percent and carries a 73-inch reach — four inches longer than Holloway's. His southpaw and orthodox versatility makes him a credible stand-in for a fighter of McGregor's profile.

McGregor, 37, enters the contest at 22-6 and brings a 74-inch reach from a southpaw stance. Fighting out of SBG Ireland, "The Notorious" averages 5.32 significant strikes per minute and has historically posed a significant threat on the feet across multiple weight classes.

Why it matters

• Holloway's volume striking versus McGregor's southpaw power represents a compelling stylistic contrast, and Della Maddalena's switch-hitting ability makes him an ideal replication partner in camp.
• A win would carry significant lightweight division implications for Holloway, who sits just outside the top three at ranked fourth.
• Della Maddalena's involvement signals a high-level, striking-focused camp ahead of one of 2026's most anticipated pay-per-view main events.