The betting markets have spoken, and former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway enters one of the biggest fights of 2026 as the favorite over returning superstar Conor McGregor.
According to the latest odds released ahead of UFC 329, Holloway has opened as a significant betting favorite over McGregor in their long-awaited rematch, more than 12 years after the pair first met inside the Octagon.
McGregor Returns After Five-Year Hiatus
The UFC 329 main event marks Conor McGregor’s first appearance in nearly five years. During his absence from competition, questions have surrounded whether “The Notorious” can return to championship form after one of the longest layoffs of his professional career.
Their first meeting took place in August 2013, when a rising McGregor defeated a then-21-year-old Max Holloway by unanimous decision. Since that night, both fighters have built Hall of Fame-worthy careers, making this rematch one of the most anticipated fights in recent UFC history.
Why Holloway Is the Betting Favorite
Sportsbooks currently favor Holloway based on recent activity, consistency, and his continued success competing against elite opposition. McGregor, meanwhile, is attempting to prove that a lengthy layoff has not diminished the skills that once made him one of the biggest stars in combat sports.
While betting lines are never guarantees of the outcome, they often reflect public sentiment, recent performances, and the opinions of oddsmakers. Holloway’s status as the favorite suggests bettors believe activity and momentum could outweigh McGregor’s historical knockout power.
Legacy Fight for Both Men
Regardless of the betting odds, UFC 329 carries enormous significance for both athletes.
A victory for Holloway would further cement his legacy as one of the greatest featherweights in UFC history while adding another marquee win to an already impressive résumé.
For McGregor, a win would represent one of the most remarkable comeback stories the sport has seen, reestablishing him as a legitimate contender after years away from active competition.
UFC 329 Headlines International Fight Week
The rematch headlines UFC 329 on July 11 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as part of the UFC’s annual International Fight Week festivities. The card also features several high-profile matchups expected to draw fans from around the world.
Whether fans are backing the favorite in Max Holloway or believing Conor McGregor can turn back the clock, one thing is certain—the rematch is one of the biggest attractions on the 2026 MMA calendar.
As fight night approaches, all eyes will be on Las Vegas to see whether the betting favorite delivers or if one of the sport’s biggest stars can author another unforgettable chapter in his career.
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