12.07.2026 08:00
Conor McGregor's big return to the octagon after five years at UFC 329 turned into a nightmare. The Irish fighter injured his right knee in the very first seconds of the match, causing the referee to stop the fight at 69 seconds, and Max Holloway was declared the winner by technical knockout. The highly anticipated bout ending earlier than expected disappointed millions of MMA fans.
Conor McGregor, one of the biggest stars of mixed martial arts (MMA), stepped into the octagon again at UFC 329 after nearly five years. In the main event of the organization held at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, the Irish star faced Max Holloway in a rematch, whom he had defeated years ago. However, the most anticipated fight of the night ended almost before it began due to an unexpected injury.
FIGHT ENDS IN 69 SECONDS
In the very first seconds of the bout, McGregor injured his right knee after a jumping kick, struggling to get back up. Although he tried to continue several times, the Irish fighter could not put weight on his leg, and the referee closely monitored his condition. After a check by the medical team, the fight was stopped at the 69th second, and Max Holloway was declared the winner by technical knockout (TKO).
INITIAL SIGNS POINT TO CRUCIATE LIGAMENT INJURY
Initial assessments in the US press suggested that McGregor may have suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his knee. While no definitive diagnosis has been announced by the camp or UFC yet, the extent of the injury is expected to become clear after detailed examinations. A potential serious ligament injury could put McGregor's career on hold again for an extended period.
5-YEAR WAIT ENDS IN DISAPPOINTMENT
McGregor's last official fight was in 2021 against Dustin Poirier, where he also could not complete the bout due to a severe leg injury. After a long rehabilitation process, UFC 329 was touted as the star fighter's big comeback. Tickets sold out quickly, and the event was billed as one of the most anticipated UFC nights of the year. But the expected return lasted only 69 seconds.
HOLLOWAY SHOWS SPORTSMANSHIP
Speaking after the fight, Max Holloway expressed sadness over his opponent's unfortunate injury, calling McGregor "a true warrior" and said they could face each other again if conditions allow. Despite this, many fans in the arena were greatly disappointed by the short fight, and chants of protest rose from the stands.
TRENDS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Following the fight, numerous UFC fighters and sports commentators shared get-well messages for McGregor. UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev made one of the most notable comments of the night with his post: "Conor defeated himself. Congrats Max."