The Daniel Cormier Show - DC REACTS to Conor McGregor OFFICIALLY making UFC RETURN vs. Max Holloway

The Herd with Colin Cowherd17mMay 23, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

Daniel Cormier delivers a masterclass in sports commentary as he reacts to Conor McGregor's official return to the UFC, set to face Max Holloway at UFC Freedom 250. Cormier dismantles McGregor's claim of being 'better than ever' after five years away, arguing that elite performance isn't maintained without consistent training—comparing it to a basketball star who hasn't shot in five years. Yet he acknowledges the power of McGregor’s belief system and charisma, which can still make him dangerous. Cormier highlights the irony that Max Holloway, once a BMF champion, is now in a better position to fight McGregor after losing the belt, thanks to the higher-profile opportunity. He praises the current state of the UFC, calling it an 'all-time heater' with stacked cards, and celebrates Scott Coker’s new venture as a sign of a thriving MMA ecosystem. The episode is less about prediction and more about the cultural gravity of McGregor’s return—and why the sport thrives when he’s involved.

Key Takeaways
1

Conor McGregor's claim of being 'better than ever' after five years away is physically implausible without consistent training.

2

Max Holloway’s loss of the BMF title ironically elevated his opportunity to fight Conor McGregor.

3

The betting lines (Max -450, Conor +300) reflect widespread belief that McGregor is a lesser version of his former self.

4

McGregor’s ability to make people believe in him—regardless of past results—is a superpower in sports entertainment.

5

The UFC is not dying; it’s in an all-time peak with multiple elite fighters and blockbuster cards like Freedom 250.

…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
4 min

Intro & Sponsorship

The episode begins with a series of iHeartRadio podcast promos, including 'Hey Jonas', 'Humor Me with Robert Smigel and Friends', 'Deep Cover The Family Man', and 'Deeply Well with Debbie Brown'. The official sponsor is revealed: Total Wireless, the UFC’s official wireless provider.

4:00
5 min

McGregor’s Return: A Surprise That Wasn’t

Max wanted this fight bad. Max believes that he is now better than he ever was or at least better than he was when they fought the first time.

Highlight
9:00
6 min

The Myth of 'Better Than Ever'

You don't get better at something by not doing it. You don't get better at something by not doing it while you're aging.

Highlight
15:00
6 min

Max Holloway’s Evolution & the Fight’s Significance

Cormier explains how Holloway’s loss to Charles Oliveira actually improved his standing for a McGregor fight. He emphasizes Holloway’s confidence and the fact that he believes he can beat McGregor now, making the fight a true clash of belief.

21:00
5 min

The Power of Belief & the Betting Lines

The guy from before was elite. Maybe that guy shows up and gets the job done.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
You don't get better at something by not doing it. You don't get better at something by not doing it while you're aging.
Daniel Cormier9:07
Viral: 85.0
The UFC can put on fight cards that are just absolutely tremendous. There is no dying when it comes to this.
Daniel Cormier21:16
Viral: 82.0
The only person that's been successful for an extended period of time is Scott Coker.
Daniel Cormier22:04
Viral: 79.0
Speakers

Host

Daniel Cormier
Topics Discussed
conor mcgregor return95%max holloway vs conor mcgregor90%ufc relevance88%ufc freedom 25085%scott coker new organization80%martial arts performance decline75%mma culture impact72%sports betting odds70%
People & Brands

daniel cormier

person

25xPositive

conor mcgregor

person

18xNeutral

max holloway

person

16xPositive

ufc

organization

12xPositive

scott coker

person

6xNeutral

hard rock bet

organization

3xNeutral

sean o'malley

person

2xNeutral

total wireless

organization

2xNeutral

steph curry

person

2xNeutral

josh holtkett

person

1xNeutral

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