In the realm of UFC, Max Holloway and Conor McGregor have left an indelible mark as captivating fighters over the past decade. The year 2013 witnessed their clash in the octagon, a match where McGregor emerged victorious through decision. Although Holloway was still young and not at his peak, he gave McGregor a challenging run for his money.
During a candid conversation on the FLAGRANT podcast with comedian Andrew Schulz, Holloway reminisced about their encounter and a revealing moment when McGregor found himself in excruciating pain.
Holloway recounted, “In that fight, the funny moment was he took me down and then I had him in half guard and he’s passing and I had like his ankle and that’s how he hurt his knee in the fight and he’s screaming, like a hurtful scream… He had a painful scream and I was like, ‘Are you okay bro?’ He’s like, ‘Yeah yeah, keep fighting mate.'”
Early UFC Days: McGregor’s Rise and Holloway’s Striking Skill
McGregor’s entry into the UFC spotlight in 2013 came on the heels of an impressive winning streak. Similarly, Holloway gained fans’ attention for his striking prowess. Despite McGregor’s relative inexperience in the UFC compared to his opponent, he was favoured in the betting odds. The initial round of their face-off showcased why McGregor held that favour, with his confident utilisation of diverse strikes from a distance. Leveraging his reach advantage, he controlled the space and landed an array of blows on Max Holloway, including impactful uppercuts and wheel kicks.
The memory shared by Holloway offers a glimpse into the intensity of their bout and the physical toll it took on both fighters. The incident sheds light on the raw moments that unfold within the octagon, revealing the human side of these fierce competitors. McGregor’s determination to continue despite the pain exemplifies the tenacity that defines UFC athletes and their unyielding pursuit of victory.
McGregor-Holloway clash stands as a testament to the thrilling encounters that the UFC consistently delivers, captivating fans with its blend of skill, strategy, and sheer grit. Holloway’s recent recollection provides a unique window into the past, adding an intriguing layer to the legacy of two fighters who have undeniably left their mark on the sport.
