**Core Concept**
The gluteus maximus muscle is a large, superficial muscle in the buttocks that plays a crucial role in hip extension and external rotation. Its innervation is essential for understanding the motor control and function of this muscle.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The gluteus maximus muscle is primarily innervated by the inferior gluteal nerve, which is a branch of the sacral plexus. The inferior gluteal nerve arises from the ventral rami of S1-S2-S3 spinal nerves and provides motor innervation to the gluteus maximus muscle, allowing for its contraction and subsequent hip extension.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The superior gluteal nerve is primarily responsible for innervating the gluteus medius and minimus muscles, not the gluteus maximus.
**Option B:** The pudendal nerve is primarily responsible for innervating the muscles of the perineum and pelvic floor, not the gluteus maximus.
**Option C:** The posterior femoral cutaneous nerve is a sensory nerve that provides cutaneous innervation to the posterior thigh and not motor innervation to the gluteus maximus.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The gluteus maximus muscle is often implicated in conditions such as gluteal tendinopathy and piriformis syndrome, highlighting the importance of proper innervation and muscle function in the buttocks region.

**Correct Answer: C. The gluteus maximus muscle is primarily innervated by the inferior gluteal nerve.**