Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Conor McGregor UFC 329 headlines the combat sports world this weekend, with the Irish star returning against Max Holloway at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas after five years away from the Octagon.
The welterweight rematch has already become a major business win for Ultimate Fighting Championship, with Dana White confirming a record $25 million gate for the event.
For more on the fight’s history, read Conor McGregor vs Max Holloway 2 brings UFC history full circle in Las Vegas.
McGregor Makes Weight As Las Vegas Buzz Builds
McGregor weighed in at 170.5 pounds after making the T-Mobile Arena crowd wait during the ceremonial weigh-in.
Holloway came in at 170 pounds, then kept his message sharp after another intense face-off.
“I’m too ferocious,” Holloway said. “Too relentless. If this guy is the missile, I’m the f***ing nuke … I’ll see you guys tomorrow night, baby.”
McGregor, back in front of a roaring Las Vegas crowd, looked calm as he spoke with Joe Rogan.
“Good to be back Joe, thank you so much.
“Great to be back. Thank you to all the fans here in attendance. I hope you’re all ready for a blockbuster event tomorrow night. The Mac is bringing it.”
Drake Bet Adds Another Layer To McGregor Comeback
The fight has also drawn attention after Drake posted a $1 million bet on McGregor through Stake, with a possible return of $2.85 million.
That has brought back talk of the so-called Drake curse, especially after the artist was on stage with McGregor before his 2018 loss to Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Dana White said McGregor’s drawing power remains clear.
“The Conor McGregor effect is huge,” White said. “Our biggest gate ever was the Sphere, $22 million, this gate beat it at $25 million. So this is the biggest gate in UFC history for his return. The city is buzzing.”
The official UFC 329 event page lists McGregor vs Holloway 2 as the headline bout from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.