SouthernWorldwide.com – The highly anticipated return of Conor McGregor to the UFC Octagon on Saturday night was abruptly cut short within moments, overshadowing the extensive build-up and fanfare.
McGregor entered the cage to face Max Holloway at UFC 329. He initiated an attack with a flying left roundhouse kick, landing awkwardly on his right knee. Attempting another kick, he slipped to the canvas. Despite trying to push through the pain, approximately two minutes into the fight, he clutched his right leg again, prompting referee Mike Beltran to stop the contest.
Following the fight, McGregor took to social media to express his dismay. “My head gasket is gone,” he stated. “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.” He further described his emotional state, writing, “I am beyond dark here. I can only describe it as hell.”
UFC president Dana White confirmed that there were no indications of a pre-existing injury leading up to the weigh-ins on Friday. White commented on the challenges of returning after a significant layoff, stating, “Five years off in this sport is rough. We’re assuming a blown ACL. That’s what I assumed when I saw it, and that’s what the doctors think, too.”
Max Holloway recounted his experience during the fight, mentioning that he repeatedly urged referee Mike Beltran to halt the bout due to McGregor’s apparent injury. However, McGregor reportedly insisted on continuing. Holloway observed a shift in McGregor’s demeanor during the fight. “When I saw him hurt, I said, ‘Call this, he’s hurt.’ I just hope for a speedy recovery,” Holloway remarked.
This bout marked McGregor’s first appearance in the Octagon since July 2021, when his fight against Dustin Poirier was ended by a severe leg injury. His win record has been limited, with only one victory since 2020.
