Dricus du Plessis tipped Conor McGregor to win the UFC 329 rematch against Max Holloway on 7 July 2026, saying he could never root against the Irish star.
What did du Plessis say?
Speaking to Fight Forecast, the South African former champion made his stance clear. “I’m a massive Conor fan… I can’t go against Conor,” du Plessis told Bloody Elbow. He praised both fighters, but his loyalty to McGregor outweighed his admiration for Holloway. The quote came ahead of the Las Vegas showdown at T‑Mobile Arena.
Why his opinion matters
Du Plessis rose to prominence in 2022 when he captured the UFC Welterweight interim title. His rapid ascent gives his analysis weight among peers. Fans respect his insight because he fought top‑ranked opponents like Kamaru Usman and has shared the cage with both McGregor and Holloway early in his career. His endorsement can sway casual bettors who look for insider perspectives.
How the odds shape the narrative
Betting lines on 7 July listed McGregor as a +185 underdog and Holloway a -215 favorite. The market opened with Holloway at -550, indicating heavy early money on the featherweight champion. Du Plessis’ prediction adds a counter‑point, suggesting the odds may tighten as the fight approaches. Oddsmakers often adjust after high‑profile opinions surface, so his comment could influence the spread.
What’s at stake for the fighters?
McGregor seeks his first win since returning in 2021, hoping a victory could catapult him toward a title shot. Holloway, coming off a loss to Charles Oliveira at UFC 326, needs a statement win to regain momentum. Du Plessis highlighted this dynamic, noting that a McGregor win would likely set up a championship bout, while a Holloway triumph would re‑establish his place among the division’s elite.
How du Plessis fits into the larger picture
Beyond the prediction, du Plessis is preparing for his own next fight, rumored to be a title eliminator later this year. His public support for McGregor may reflect strategic positioning, aligning himself with a potential future opponent’s camp. The UFC often leverages such narratives to build hype, and du Plessis’ comments feed into that promotional engine.
What’s next for the rematch?
The bout kicks off at 8:30 PM local time on 7 July, with both athletes expected to bring contrasting styles—McGregor’s precision striking versus Holloway’s relentless volume. Du Plessis’ forecast adds another layer of intrigue, reminding fans that even seasoned champions can have favorite fighters. As the night unfolds, the betting market will likely react, and analysts will dissect every punch for clues about the eventual winner.