One of UFC’s most accomplished featherweights, Max Holloway, is preparing for a rematch with Conor McGregor on July 11, 2026. His preparations for UFC 329 include tweaks to his diet that will help him stay prepared in Hawaii’s scorching heat with temperatures reaching up to 89°F.

In an Instagram video posted by mmaplayback on June 25, Holloway shares the contents of his delicious rice bowl. Mango stick rice, chicken, and vegetables might sound like a slightly unconventional combination (as mango sticky rice is traditionally served as desert). However, Holloway insists the flavors are fun together.

“At the end of the day, it’s been hot here in Hawaii. Been unreal. We just finished up MMA practice. Now we’re on workout two of the day. Strength and conditioning here at Tactical,” Holloway says while enjoying his meal.

McGregor won their first fight in 2013 by a unanimous decision, setting up an anticipated comeback fight at UFC 329 this year. Everyone is on the edge of their seats for the much-awaited chance for Holloway to even the score.

Holloway is making sure that this time, he gets his prep and training on point to avenge that loss early in his career.

McGregor's anticipated return after a five-year hiatus adds a new angle to the fight.

What kept Conor McGregor out of the Octagon for five years

During a UFC fight with Dustin Poirier in July 2021 at UFC 264, McGregor suffered a broken left tibia during the first round. Little did he know that it would be his last fight for the next five years.

Although he was scheduled to return at UFC 303 in 2024 in a bout against Michael Chandler, he broke a toe during training. This led to the anticipated fight being canceled.

However, the UFC rescheduled his return to 2026, causing yet another delay. The reason behind this was an 18-month suspension when he failed to disclose his whereabouts for testing obligations.

During an interview with CBS’s Nate Burleson, McGregor admitted to losing his footing during his long absence.

“It's probably accurate at moments for sure," McGregor said. "At 27 years of age, I had the game conquered. Two-weight world champion. I had the Floyd [Mayweather] bout boxed off. I was only 27 years of age. I had the game wrapped up in a blink, and what more was I to do? I got lost,” he said, as per CBS Sports.

It was disheartening to hear about his passion for MMA fading during a turbulent stretch in his life and career. However, McGregor is all set to return amidst controversy, criticism, and growing doubts from fans.

Who do you think will win the Holloway vs. McGregor bout?

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Written by

Avantika Das

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi