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Conor McGregor Returns to UFC at 329 Against Max Holloway

The highly anticipated rematch marks McGregor's return after nearly five years away from the Octagon

Category: Sports

Conor McGregor is set to make his much-anticipated return to the UFC at UFC 329, facing off against Max Holloway in a rematch nearly 13 years in the making.

Why it matters: McGregor's comeback is one of the most awaited events in mixed martial arts, as he looks to prove he still has what it takes after a long hiatus due to injury and controversies.

  • UFC 329 takes place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
  • This fight marks McGregor's first appearance since suffering a broken leg in a loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021.

Driving the news: The event is part of UFC International Fight Week, which is known for its high-profile fights and fan engagement.

  • The main card starts at 9 p.m. ET, with McGregor expected to enter the Octagon around midnight ET on July 12.
  • Early prelims begin at 5 p.m. ET, followed by prelims at 7 p.m. ET.

State of play: McGregor, who holds a record of 22-6, has not won a fight since 2020 and has faced various personal and professional challenges during his time away.

  • He accepted an 18-month suspension for violating the UFC's anti-doping policy, which ended in March 2026.
  • Holloway, a former UFC featherweight and BMF champion, enters the fight with a record of 2-2 in his last four matches.

The big picture: This rematch is particularly poignant for both fighters, as they have experienced different trajectories since their first meeting in 2013.

  • In their first bout, McGregor defeated Holloway by unanimous decision, even after tearing his ACL during the fight.
  • Holloway is coming off a loss to Charles Oliveira in March 2026, adding pressure to perform well against McGregor.

What they're saying: McGregor has made bold statements leading up to the fight, expressing confidence in his abilities.

  • If you’re asking me what I have above him, speed, power, IQ, fitness, health, freshness,” McGregor told the UFC via MMA Weekly.
  • He added, “He didn’t lay a glove on me last time… I sonned Max when I fought him last, and I plan on doing the same again in more devastating fashion.”

By the numbers: The fight card features several notable matchups beyond the main event.

  • In the co-main event, Paddy Pimblett faces Benoit Saint-Denis, both ranked in the lightweight division.
  • Other notable bouts include Cory Sandhagen vs. Mario Bautista and Brandon Royval vs. Lone'er Kavanagh.

Between the lines: McGregor's legal troubles have cast a shadow over his return, as he was found liable for rape in a civil case in 2024, a claim he continues to deny.

  • His appeal against the jury's verdict was unsuccessful, but he remains focused on his fighting career.
  • McGregor's net worth is estimated at $200 million, bolstered by various business ventures and endorsements.

What's next: Fans can catch all the action live on streaming platforms.

  • In the U.S., UFC 329 will be available on Paramount+, without the need for a pay-per-view purchase.
  • In the UK, the event will air on TNT Sports pay-per-view, priced at £19.99.