Former champion Conor McGregor's long-awaited return to the UFC ended in disappointment after just 69 seconds, as a knee injury forced a technical knockout (TKO) loss to Max Holloway at UFC 329 in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Sunday, July 12, 2026 (Philippine time).
Fight Ends Abruptly After Flying Kick
In the first round of the five-round welterweight bout, McGregor launched an aggressive flying kick but appeared to land awkwardly, resulting in a knee injury. Referee Mike Beltran had no choice but to stop the fight, awarding Holloway the TKO victory.
Many fans were left unsatisfied, with some speculating the incident was scripted. McGregor later took to social media to explain that he had no pre-existing injury and that the injury occurred during the fight.
Holloway Calls for Rematch
Despite the win, Holloway expressed disappointment over the outcome. “So much hype. We've got to run it back one more time,” Holloway said. “For it to end like this sucks.”
The loss tied the head-to-head record between the two fighters at 1-1, as McGregor had won their first encounter in 2013.
McGregor's Statement on Injury
McGregor described the injury as unexpected. “I was throwing kicks, planted and jumping, all throughout camp as well as backstage before the fight. This came out of nowhere. I am beyond dark here. I can only describe it as hell,” he wrote.
