The previous generation of Airpods Max could function in 'wired mode' with the aforementioned MFA Apple cable. As far as my understanding goes, there is no technical reason for this not to be acvhived with usb-c -> lightning.
The same applies here I suspect. There should be no reason why it cannot be done, it just depends on whether apple want to or not :/
My only regret regarding buying the airpods max (previous gen) is the fact that wired mode is essentially useless due to the requirement on an expensive (and incredibly fragile) cable.
Note to Apple: I have an Apple laptop, with an Apple usb c cable and Apple headphones. Make it work, you are being unreasonable. Grow up.