UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway predicts his upcoming fight with Frankie Edgar at UFC 240, would turn into a war inside the Octagon.

Nevertheless, the 27-year-old Hawaiian-born fighter said he is ready to defend his title against his American opponent in the main event this Saturday (Sunday Malaysian time).

"Edgar’s a legend – he’s a legend. His team is smart. So we’ll see what happens. If we go in there and it’s an early night, that means I caught him with something, and I get to go out there unscathed.

"But if I go out there it’s a war, every fight you got to go with Edgar, looking as wars. When Edgar’s in a fight, it’s a battle," he told Astro AWANI.

This is his third featherweight title defence in the UFC after successfully defending it against Jose Aldo in December 2017 and Brian Ortega in December 2018.

Placing much respect in his opponent, Holloway said Edgar has always been the smarter guy against big guys in fights.

"My message to Frankie is, all love you, you know. When the Octagon door is closed, you’re a UFC Hall of Famer already, I’m working my way to get there. I can wait to see you come Saturday night," he said.

Meanwhile, Edgar said he is prepared for a five round war with Holloway, and expects the fight to be 'super exciting'.

"Yes, I think this fight is going to be super exciting, Max brings great pace, as do I. Yes, if a finish is there, I’m definitely going to go for it. But I’m prepared for a five round war with Max.

Commenting on his opponent, Edgar said he has tons of respect towards Holloway and believes the latter has the same for him.

"Let’s put on a show man, I know he always does. I’m excited to mix it up with him.

"Just two guys that admire each other, getting after each other," said the 37-year-old legend.

UFC 240 will take place at the Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.