Published 90 days ago
McGregor collapses in his first fight after a five-year absence
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Conor McGregor made his return at UFC 329 on July 16, 2026, against Max Holloway, but his fight ended prematurely after just 69 seconds due to a knee injury. The Dublin native demanded a no contest and the refund of bets placed on the fight.
To remember:
- Conor McGregor makes a highly anticipated return to UFC 329 after a five-year absence.
- His fight against Max Holloway is stopped after just 69 seconds due to a knee injury.
- McGregor demands a no contest and the refund of bets placed on the fight.
The 16th of July 2026 will go down as a dark day in Conor McGregor's career. The Dublin native, the undisputed star of the UFC, attempted a triumphant return at UFC 329 after five years away, facing American Max Holloway. But within the first few seconds, the script flipped: an unlucky kick caused a knee injury, ending the fight after just 69 seconds.
Immediately, emotion gave way to controversy. McGregor, known for his charisma and bold statements, reacted by demanding a no contest and the refund of fans' bets. A reaction that surprised as much as it divided: some see it as an attempt to save face, while others argue the fight's stoppage was unavoidable.
This long-awaited return, so eagerly anticipated by MMA fans, thus ended in a crushing failure. Yet, the Irishman has never hidden his ambition to reclaim the top spot. But faced with the reality of such an early injury, the question arises: Can McGregor still contend for the title?
A Fight Stopped Before It Even Began
From the very first seconds, the fight between McGregor and Holloway took an unexpected turn. The Dublin native, accustomed to dominating his opponents with aggression, seemed disoriented. A kick from Holloway struck his left leg, causing an immediate reaction of pain. The referee had no choice but to stop the fight, leaving McGregor on the canvas, visibly injured.
Back in the locker room, frustration was palpable. McGregor, who had promised a spectacular return, had to leave the cage in front of thousands of spectators and millions of viewers. An image that starkly contrasts with his previous performances, where he had made UFC history with his spectacular KOs.
Reactions and Consequences
Social media erupted after the fight was stopped. Some fans expressed their disappointment, while others supported McGregor in his demand for a no contest. Bookmakers, meanwhile, had to handle bet refunds, a situation that highlights the unpredictability of combat sports.
For Holloway, this fight will remain a win by default, but without the glory of a KO or a submission. As for McGregor, his future in the octagon seems more uncertain than ever. One thing is certain: this failed return casts doubt on his ability to return to his former level.
Conor McGregor’s return at UFC 329 will remain a memorable moment, but not for the reasons hoped. Between injury, controversy, and uncertainty, the Irishman now faces a murkier future than ever. One thing is certain: MMA fans will be waiting eagerly to see if he can bounce back.