Conor McGregor was placed last in Max Holloway’s ranking of the greatest UFC featherweights on 9 Jul 2026, the former champion’s position igniting fresh discussion about his legacy in the division.
What did Max Holloway say?
Holloway, a two‑time featherweight champion, posted his top‑10 list on social media on 9 Jul 2026. He praised legends such as Jose Aldo and Alexander Volkanovski, then placed McGregor at the very bottom, noting the Irish fighter’s brief stint at 145 lb and lack of a title in the weight class. The former lightweight king’s ranking sparked a flood of comments from fans and analysts alike.
Why does the ranking matter for Conor McGregor?
McGregor’s featherweight résumé consists of a single fight – a 13‑second knockout of José Aldo at UFC 194 on 12 Dec 2015, which earned him the belt. Holloway argued that a solitary title defense and limited activity don’t compare with multi‑year reigns. For McGregor, the placement challenges the narrative that his 2015 win alone cements him among the division’s elite.
How have other fighters responded?
Several featherweights weighed in. Volkanovski tweeted, “Respect to Conor’s impact, but longevity matters.” Aldo posted a video clip of the Aldo‑McGregor fight, reminding followers of the historic moment. Meanwhile, rising star Yair Rodriguez called the list “subjective,” pointing out McGregor’s marketability and crossover appeal as factors beyond pure fight records.
What could change McGregor’s standing?
If McGregor returns to 145 lb and strings together wins, his ranking could shift dramatically. Analysts note that a successful comeback would add depth to his featherweight résumé, potentially moving him up Holloway’s list. Until then, the Irish star remains a footnote in a division dominated by fighters with multiple title defenses.
What’s the fan reaction?
Social media lit up with memes, debates, and nostalgic clips. Some fans defended McGregor, highlighting his role in popularising the featherweight class. Others agreed with Holloway, emphasizing that greatness requires consistency. The conversation underscores how rankings can influence public perception of a fighter’s career.
What’s next for the debate?
Holloway’s list will likely be revisited after upcoming featherweight bouts. As new champions emerge, the conversation about where McGregor fits will evolve. For now, his placement at the bottom of the list serves as a reminder that a single iconic victory doesn’t automatically secure a spot among the all‑time greats.