McGregor's Return Cut Short by Devastating Leg Injury
Conor McGregor's highly anticipated UFC comeback ended in disaster as he suffered a severe leg injury just seconds into his rematch with long-time rival Max Holloway. The fight, which took place on July 11, 2026, lasted only 60 seconds before the referee waved it off, leaving fans and fighters stunned.
Holloway, seeking to avenge his defeat to McGregor 13 years prior, moved up 15 pounds to face the Irishman at welterweight. Despite the size disadvantage, Holloway remained composed as McGregor grimaced before the fight even began, appearing to favor his right leg during his walk to the Octagon.
How the Fight Unfolded
McGregor rushed to the center of the cage and attempted a spinning kick, but landed awkwardly on his right leg. He slipped multiple times, with Holloway reluctant to engage on the ground, signaling for the referee to stand McGregor up. When McGregor finally got to his feet, he hobbled and shook his head, prompting the referee to stop the fight.
Holloway showed sportsmanship after the victory, paying respect to a crestfallen McGregor. He told Joe Rogan: "Let's give it up for Connor [McGregor], what an absolute animal. You guys are lucky because there is going to be a Holloway v McGregor three now. Let's get that money."
Holloway Demands Trilogy
Holloway expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, saying: "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 170 [lbs] and fight this guy. For it to end like this, it sucks."
However, if McGregor suffered an ACL tear or similar injury, his recovery could take over a year. With his 38th birthday approaching, questions arise about whether this marks the end of his UFC career.
Co-Main Event: Pimblett Shines
In the co-main event, Paddy Pimblett submitted Benoit Saint-Denis in just seconds, catching him in a choke after a failed leg kick. Pimblett called out multiple opponents, saying: "Sub of the year! I knew he was out. I told everyone all week, try to grab my legs and I will choke him unconscious. I'll beat Ilia [Topuria] up, I'll rematch Justin [Gaethje], I'll fight Conor [McGregor] or Max [Holloway] next."
Other Main Card Results
Brit Lone'er Kavanagh saw his flyweight title hopes dashed when Brandon Royval submitted him via rear-naked choke in the third round. Earlier, Pimblett's teammate Luken Riley moved to 14-0 with a first-round stoppage of Kai Kamaka III, and King Green opened the main card with a buzzer-beating first-round finish of Terrance McKinney.
