Max Holloway addressed the tactical possibilities heading into his fight with Conor McGregor, acknowledging that wrestling could come into play in a mixed martial arts bout. He made clear, however, that his preference is for a stand-up battle, stating he wants to test McGregor on the feet.
Max Holloway has spoken publicly about his strategic outlook ahead of his upcoming fight with Conor McGregor, admitting that wrestling is a legitimate option in a mixed martial arts contest while making clear he would prefer to settle things on the feet.
Holloway, 34, enters the bout ranked fourth at lightweight and ninth on the pound-for-pound list, carrying a professional record of 27-9. The Hawaii-born fighter, who competes out of Gracie Technics, is one of the most prolific strikers in the sport, averaging 7.2 significant strikes landed per minute with 48 percent accuracy. His Orthodox stance and 69-inch reach have served him well across a lengthy career that has established him as an elite finisher at the top of the division.
McGregor, now 37, holds a record of 22-6 and returns under the SBG Ireland banner. The Notorious carries a slight edge in reach at 74 inches despite standing an inch shorter than Holloway at five-foot-nine. The Irishman's southpaw style and 49 percent striking accuracy made him one of the most feared punchers the sport has seen, and his output averages 5.32 significant strikes per minute. He also shows a more active takedown game than his reputation might suggest, averaging 0.67 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Holloway acknowledged in his comments that wrestling could factor into the contest, a nod to the unpredictable nature of MMA. His preference, however, is for a stand-up war, and he stated plainly that he wants to test McGregor in the striking department.
Why it matters
- A lightweight showdown between a current top-five contender and a former two-division champion carries significant divisional weight
- Holloway's striking volume advantage could be a decisive factor if the fight remains on the feet
- McGregor's southpaw angles present a genuine stylistic challenge for Holloway's Orthodox approach
- The outcome would have clear implications for the lightweight rankings at a competitive moment in the division
