McGregor loses to Holloway again in UFC 329 comeback

Conor McGregor’s controversial return to the UFC ended in a first-round injury on Saturday, July 12, 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, just five years after he last suffered a leg break in the same venue. McGregor faced off against old foe Max Holloway, and the bout quickly turned sour for the Irish star when he appeared to sustain an injury shortly after the fight began, potentially while attempting a running, jumping kick.

After throwing a kick, McGregor slipped to the canvas. He managed to get back to his feet amid Holloway’s ground and pound, but soon fell once more. When he recovered for a second time after additional strikes from Holloway, he stumbled and shook his head, prompting the referee to stop the fight.

This fight marked McGregor’s first since he broke his leg during a first-round loss to Dustin Poirier in 2021. It also came two years after a civil jury held him liable for rape allegations dating back to 2018, which he denied. His appeal against the verdict was unsuccessful. The timing of this return has led to speculation about the future of McGregor’s career; as he turns 38, retirement could be a pressing consideration.

McGregor’s comeback lasted just 69 seconds at UFC 329. His two previous injuries occurred at the same location, highlighting a troubling pattern in his recent fights. Given the severity of the latest incident, there are concerns regarding the nature of McGregor’s injury, with speculation about potential ACL damage. Such injuries can take a long time to heal, and recovery might prevent him from training or fighting until late 2027.

In a previous interview with journalist Ariel Helwani, McGregor hinted at holding a contract for fights scheduled on July 11 and possibly again in April 2027. However, the uncertainty surrounding his injuries raises questions about whether he will be able to compete again in the future, or if this could mark the end of his career. The MMA community watches closely as details about his condition unfold.