Conor McGregor’s long awaited UFC comeback ended in devastating fashion after a knee injury brought his clash with Max Holloway to a premature conclusion at UFC 329 in Las Vegas.
Returning to MMA competition for the first time in five years, McGregor lasted only 69 seconds before referee Mike Beltran stopped the contest. Holloway was awarded the victory after the Irish superstar appeared unable to continue due to damage to his right knee.
The injury occurred moments after McGregor charged forward and attempted a flying kick. The 37 year old soon struggled with his movement and slipped to the canvas several times during the following exchanges. Holloway quickly recognised that something was wrong and repeatedly drew attention to McGregor’s condition.
Despite McGregor reportedly wanting to continue, the contest was eventually called off. Holloway praised his former rival after the bout and suggested a third meeting between the pair could still happen in the future.
The disappointing ending came on a historic evening for the UFC. According to UFC CEO Dana White, the event generated the biggest gate revenue in the promotion’s history.
McGregor now holds a professional MMA record of 22 wins and seven defeats. His latest setback follows the serious leg injury he suffered against Dustin Poirier in 2021, which kept him away from UFC competition for several years. A planned return against Michael Chandler was also cancelled after McGregor sustained a broken toe.
Holloway, whose record improves to 28 wins and nine losses, had previously faced McGregor in 2013. McGregor won that encounter by unanimous decision.
Although McGregor managed to leave the cage without assistance, he was clearly limping. The broadcast later confirmed a knee injury, leaving fresh uncertainty over the future of one of UFC’s biggest stars.
