Max Holloway's Size Jump Looks Nothing Like Other Fighters' Bulk-Ups
Max Holloway vs. Conor McGregor is a rematch nearly 13 years in the making. The two clashed in 2013, with Holloway a 19-year-old prospect and McGregor still in the beginning stages of his meteoric rise.
McGregor utilized his experience (and ironically, his wrestling) to control the fight, winning easily on all scorecards. Since then, both have gone on to legendary, hall-of-fame careers.
The 2013 featherweight bout has come full circle to a 2026 welterweight bout. This will be Holloway's first fight at welterweight, while McGregor has had a few fights in that class.
New footage came out today of Holloway prepping for his fight by sparring former welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena. He looks noticeably bigger, but not in an unnatural way. Some fighters move up a weight class and look bloated and uncomfortable, but Max looks like he is doing it the right way.
Throughout Holloway's career, he has gradually added more size to his frame, but it will be interesting to see how he officially does at welterweight. He was big for the featherweight class, but struggled against some larger lightweights like Dustin Poirier.
Despite the long layoff for McGregor, he may be able to use his size and power against Holloway. The matchup suits him well, as it will likely be a standup battle. Where the fight could go wrong for Conor is the pace. Holloway's cardio and output are second to none.
It's a fascinating clash of styles and timelines: a fighter who has only ever gotten better with age against one who's stepping back into the cage after a long absence, both chasing the kind of statement win that defines a legacy. Recent interviews make it seem like Conor is in a good place mentally. However, a five-year layoff is an eternity in MMA. Holloway's pace, durability, and ability to adjust mid-fight make him the current betting favorite. UFC 329 on July 11th will show if ring rust is real, or if McGregor has one more magical moment in him.
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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 4:16 PM.