Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the octagon at UFC 329 in Las Vegas on Saturday night ended in devastating fashion, as he suffered a serious leg injury just 69 seconds into his clash with Max Holloway. The 37-year-old Irishman has since described his mental state as 'beyond dark' and 'hell', casting major doubt over his future in the sport.
Fight Breakdown: A Swift and Shocking End
McGregor came out aggressively, attempting two high kicks, but missed both times and ended up on the canvas. He managed to get back to his feet but appeared unsteady, prompting referee Mike Beltran to wave off the contest as he stumbled. It was McGregor's first UFC appearance since breaking his leg in a defeat to Dustin Poirier in 2021. Despite refusing crutches as he limped out of the T-Mobile Arena, questions about his career are now inevitable.
McGregor's Emotional Response
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), McGregor categorically denied any pre-existing injury, writing: 'My head gasket is gone. Destroyed. I had no injury / injuries going into the fight. 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.'
Dana White's Update on Injury
Speaking at the post-fight press conference, UFC CEO Dana White offered an update on McGregor's condition while awaiting final medical results. He said: 'Five years off in this sport is rough. I was expecting at least a one-round war or who knew what Conor was capable of as far as cardio or whatever else after a five year layoff. There you go. We're assuming blown ACL. I'm no doctor but that's what I figured when I saw it and the doctors think the same thing, too.'
Max Holloway Calls for Rematch
Meanwhile, Holloway expressed a desire for a third fight with McGregor, stating: 'You guys are lucky because there is going to be a Holloway v McGregor 3 now. It is what it is. I'll sit down with the UFC. There was so much hype for that. We have to run it back one more time. We need one more. I was looking forward to this. I was working hard to get to 170lb and fight this guy. For it to end like this, it sucks.'
