17 August 2013. UFC Fight Night 26. A time before a persistent Conor McGregor news stream, when the young Dubliner was still cutting his teeth and dreaming of six-figure payouts. McGregor faced off against Max Holloway that night after Andy Ogle pulled out. It was a big win that backed up his dramatic debut earlier that year.
The fight ended in an unanimous decision and McGregor would go on to become the controversial phenomenon that he is. Despite not featuring in an MMA bout since 2016 McGregor just can't escape from the headlines, not that he wants to.
Last night, Holloway emerged to defeat Jose Aldo in a dominant performance during UFC 218. His strike power proved too much for Aldo in a fight that signalled a definite changing of the guard:
Max Holloway picks apart Jose Aldo at the end of round 3 for his 12th straight win#UFC218 pic.twitter.com/3256uyrAwZ
— Rob Lopez (@r0bato) December 3, 2017
While still inactive, it looks like McGregor was paying attention.
I miss those sunglasses. pic.twitter.com/0fa7U9dM4Y
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) December 3, 2017
Holloway was quick to respond.
Miss the sunglasses? I bet you also miss 2015 brother. Retired fighters love the past. pic.twitter.com/UWGnJG2KEe
— Max Holloway (@BlessedMMA) December 3, 2017
The jeer was a tad unnecessary from McGregor, given Holloway recently expressed sympathy with the McGregor's current situation.
While there has been a lot of talk about a possible match-up against Tony Ferguson, it is not unfeasible to imagine a rematch with Holloway for McGregor. Perhaps a return to the octagon would serve McGregor best right now. Despite Dana White casting doubts over whether he would ever fight again, McGregor remains the biggest name in UFC and the focus of a training camp could be beneficial.
