Phoenix 24
Five years away transformed his body, faith and purpose.
LAS VEGAS, UNITED STATES — July 2026. Conor McGregor has described his return to the UFC as the culmination of an extended period of reflection and personal change. The former two-division champion will face Max Holloway on July 11 in the main event of UFC 329. It will be his first professional fight in five years.
McGregor has not competed since suffering a severe left-leg fracture against Dustin Poirier in July 2021. Injuries, defeats and repeated controversies subsequently raised doubts about whether the Irish fighter would ever return. He now says the prolonged absence forced him to reconsider his lifestyle, career and relationship with competition.
“I have focused and reflected, and now I return to show what I am made of,” McGregor said ahead of the bout. He has also spoken about undergoing a spiritual journey, finding strength in his faith and recovering the competitive motivation that once defined his rise. His preparation has included rebuilding his body for a welterweight contest.
The matchup revisits McGregor’s 2013 victory over Holloway, when both fighters were emerging UFC prospects. Since then, each has become a world champion, although Holloway has remained considerably more active. The rematch will test whether McGregor’s declared transformation can withstand the demands of elite competition.
McGregor’s greatest comeback may depend on whether personal change can produce sporting redemption.