Former UFC featherweight champion and BMF titleholder Max Holloway has reacted to a viral AI-generated photo that appeared to show him looking significantly heavier ahead of his move to welterweight.
Holloway is set to make his 170-pound debut against Conor McGregor in the main event of UFC 329 on July 11. Fans have been paying close attention to Holloway’s physique and how his body will adapt to competing at welterweight for the first time in his UFC career.
However, a fake image recently circulated online showing ‘Blessed‘ looking noticeably out of shape. The picture quickly gained traction across social media, with some fans appearing to believe that the Hawaiian had put on excessive weight ahead of his highly anticipated rematch with McGregor.
Holloway has now addressed the viral image and made it clear that the photo was not real. During a recent appearance, he laughed off the situation and admitted that he was surprised so many people had fallen for it. He said:
“I can’t believe people believe that is real. It was pretty good, though. I’m not going to lie.”
Check out Max Holloway’s comments below:
Max Holloway’s Welterweight Move Adds Fuel to UFC 329 Physique Debate
The reaction was classic Max Holloway, who appeared amused rather than irritated by the online speculation. While the AI image created plenty of conversation, recent footage of the former champion suggests that he remains in strong condition as he prepares for one of the biggest fights of his career.
The debate around Holloway’s physique is understandable given the circumstances. Moving up to welterweight is a major shift for a fighter who spent most of his elite career competing at featherweight before later testing himself at lightweight. At 170 pounds, Holloway will no longer have to endure the same brutal weight cuts, but questions remain over whether his trademark volume, cardio, and speed will translate against bigger opponents.
Against McGregor, those questions become even more interesting. ‘The Notorious‘ has also competed at welterweight before and is returning after a lengthy layoff, making both fighters’ physical condition a major talking point heading into UFC 329.
Holloway’s style has always been built around pace, durability, and relentless pressure. If he can carry those attributes into the welterweight division without losing sharpness, he could pose serious problems for McGregor over five rounds. However, the viral AI photo shows just how intense the scrutiny will be as fight night approaches.
For now, Holloway has dismissed the image with humor and confidence. With UFC 329 fast approaching, fans will soon get a real look at how ‘Blessed’ carries himself at 170 pounds when he finally shares the Octagon with McGregor once again.
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