Conor McGregor's UFC Return: Holloway vs. Masvidal Showdown

Conor McGregor’s long-anticipated return to the UFC is reportedly targeting July, specifically during International Fight Week. As discussions unfold, Max Holloway appears to be in the pole position to welcome the Irishman back to the Octagon, seemingly ahead of Jorge Masvidal.

The Current Status of Conor McGregor’s Comeback

Reports suggest the UFC is aiming for a July 11 date in Las Vegas, likely to coincide with International Fight Week. This would mark McGregor’s first fight since his severe leg injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. Journalist Ariel Helwani has corroborated this timeline, and McGregor himself has hinted on social media that negotiations are progressing positively. With a potential date now in focus, attention has shifted to who will stand opposite him in the cage.

Why Max Holloway is the Leading Candidate

Multiple media outlets indicate that former featherweight champion and current BMF titleholder, Max Holloway, is the top contender to face McGregor on the upcoming July card. Helwani stated that Holloway is "the frontrunner," suggesting that Jorge Masvidal is no longer considered the primary option. UFC commentator Jon Anik echoed this sentiment, arguing that McGregor vs. Holloway is "about as big a fight as you can make" for McGregor when considering opponents from the blue corner. Holloway has also publicly expressed his desire for the bout, declaring readiness to fight McGregor at any weight, a stance that aligns with the UFC's preference for high-action, striking-heavy matchups that generate significant pay-per-view sales.

Holloway brings recent competitive success and a high-volume striking style, which would serve as a robust test of McGregor's form after years away from active competition. As the current holder of the symbolic BMF title, he remains one of the most elite and active fighters across the lightweight and featherweight divisions. A rematch between them would capitalize on the narrative of their initial 2013 featherweight encounter, where a young Holloway pushed McGregor to a decision before both went on to win UFC gold in different weight classes. From a sporting perspective, Holloway offers a durable, high-output striker capable of challenging McGregor's cardio and timing over five rounds, while keeping the fight in the center of the cage.

Jorge Masvidal’s Case and the MVP Offer

Jorge Masvidal, on the other hand, presents a different kind of opponent: a monumental name with a storied past, albeit one who appears to be in the twilight of his career. The former BMF champion has not competed in the UFC since his decision loss to Colby Covington at UFC 272 in March 2022, though he has recently been teasing a return to the organization.

Masvidal recently revealed he declined an offer to fight on a Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)/Netflix card. He stated his reason was that the UFC had "a good plan" for him, which he intends to pursue. This detail explains his decision to forgo the MVP opportunity despite apparent interest, indicating that the UFC has at least discussed a marquee return for him. Stylistically, Masvidal vs. McGregor would be a fan-friendly striking matchup, relying more on the combatants' established name recognition and personalities than their current rankings or recent activity.

Conclusion: Holloway Offers Sporting Test, Masvidal a Spectacle

From a purely competitive and relevance standpoint, Max Holloway appears to be the superior choice for Conor McGregor’s comeback. He is active, currently holds the BMF belt, and provides an opportunity to address lingering questions from their first fight while offering a high-level, striking-focused opponent who remains at the pinnacle of his divisions.

Masvidal undoubtedly remains a significant star, and his decision to prioritize potential UFC plans over an MVP/Netflix opportunity hints at future endeavors within the promotion. However, his extended layoff and recent losing streak make a matchup with McGregor feel more like an exhibition or a spectacle, rather than a definitive test of where McGregor truly stands in the contemporary MMA landscape.