Israel Adesanya weighs in on Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the UFC octagon against Max Holloway at UFC 329.
What's at stake for Conor McGregor?
McGregor has not fought in MMA since his back-to-back defeats to Dustin Poirier at UFC 257 and UFC 264 in 2021.
He suffered a leg break at UFC 264, leading to a TKO win for Poirier via a doctor's stoppage.
Israel Adesanya's assessment of Max Holloway
Adesanya insists McGregor has not chosen an easy fight for his return, citing Holloway's strengths as a volume puncher.
"Reality is reality, and Max is reality, so dealing with that for your first fight back [is tough]," Adesanya told Demetrious Johnson's YouTube channel.
Holloway last fought at UFC 326 in March, losing to Charles Oliveira via unanimous decision.
The challenge ahead for Conor McGregor
McGregor will face a tough test in Holloway, who is known for his aggressive fighting style.
Adesanya believes McGregor should not be ruled out, despite his absence from the octagon since 2021.
"But look, if anyone rises to the occasion, it's 'The Notorious' one, Conor," Adesanya added.
McGregor and Holloway will co-main event the UFC 329 card in Las Vegas alongside the lightweight bout between Benoit Saint Denis and Paddy Pimblett.
The fight is scheduled to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
McGregor's last win in the octagon was a stunning first-round TKO victory over Donald Cerrone at UFC 246 in 2020.
Adesanya's comments highlight the significance of McGregor's comeback fight and the challenges he will face against Holloway.