UFC 329: Conor McGregor Returns After Five‑Year Hiatus

Conor McGregor is set to headline UFC 329 after a five‑year MMA exile, stepping into the octagon for the first time at welterweight against former featherweight champion Max Holloway. The Irish superstar carries the weight of a waning knockout streak and a high‑profile civil trial, while Holloway has remained in the sport, compiling a 6‑4 UFC record and facing multiple title contenders. This 170‑pound clash isn’t just a rematch of a 2013 featherweight bout; it’s a chance for both men to redefine their careers on a new scale.

170 Pounds: Conor McGregor vs Max Holloway

McGregor enters the cage with his signature knockout power, though his last two fights ended in consecutive TKO defeats to Dustin Poirier and a leg injury that sidelined him for years. Holloway, on the other hand, has evolved into a relentless grinder, nicknamed the “death by a thousand cuts” for his volume striking and impressive chin. The odds reflect the contrast: McGregor sits at +190 while Holloway is favored at -235, underscoring the expectation that the more active fighter will control the pace.

Holloway’s speed and stamina should keep McGregor on his heels, especially given the Irishman’s history of slowing down after a early onslaught. The former featherweight champ has also sharpened his wrestling and boxing, making this a tougher test than any McGregor faced during his peak. If Holloway can avoid the clinch and keep the fight standing, the veteran’s comeback chances look slim.

155 Pounds: Benoît Saint Denis vs Paddy Pimblett

After a brutal five‑round loss to Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett looks to rebound against Benoît Saint Denis, a finisher who has dominated his recent opponents. Saint Denis, known as “BSD,” has ended fights quickly against Mauricio Ruffy, Dan Hooker and Beneil Dariush, making him a daunting opponent for the Liverpool fighter. Pimblett’s durability shone against Gaethje, but Saint Denis’s relentless pressure could expose any cracks in the challenger’s game.

The style mismatch favors Saint Denis; his aggressive clinch work and relentless forward momentum clash with Pimblett’s more cautious, counter‑punching approach. If this fight goes to the mat, the Briton’s grappling could be tested, and a fire‑fight would likely end in a quick stoppage. The betting line also reflects the expectation: Saint Denis is the -145 favorite, with Pimblett at +120.

Pick: Saint Denis

135 Pounds: Cory Sandhagen vs Mario Bautista

Two years after their first meeting, Cory Sandhagen returns to face Mario Bautista in a rematch that could finally unlock a title shot for the Arkansas product. Sandhagen won the original bout by submission in 2019, but Bautista has since refined his wrestling and added a high‑octane boxing game that makes him a more complete threat. This fight is billed as the deepest on the card, with both men possessing the tools to win by a variety of methods.

Bautista’s recent victory over Vinicius Oliveira gave him the confidence to believe an upset is possible, yet Sandhagen’s creativity and mental edge from the prior contest still give him the advantage. The former champion’s ability to unpredictable pressure may disrupt Bautista’s rhythm, and his track record in the division suggests he can navigate the rematch dynamics.

Pick: Sandhagen

125 Pounds: Brandon Royval vs Lone’er Kavanagh

Lone’er Kavanagh’s stunning upset of Brandon Moreno in Mexico showcased a newfound striking fluency that has turned him into a genuine title contender. Royval, however, remains a top‑tier flyweight with a résumé that includes a title shot, and he will bring the veteran aggression that can wear down any challenger. The bout promises a tactical battle between a proven contender and a rising star eager to cement his status.

Kavanagh’s crisp striking and superior takedown defense gave him the edge over Moreno, but Royval’s experience at 125 pounds should force the Briton to adapt quickly. If Kavanagh can maintain his high work rate and avoid deep exchanges, he could repeat his Mexico triumph on American soil, while Royval will look to impose his own will and test the young fighter’s durability.

Pick: Kavanagh

155 Pounds: King Green vs Terrance McKinney

The contrast between King Green’s clinical boxing and Terrance McKinney’s wild, relentless pressure makes this a clash of philosophies. McKinney has shown resurgence in his last two fights, but Green’s ability to sit back and counter could neutralize that aggression. McKinney’s style favors extended slugfests, while Green prefers to pick his spots and land precise shots.

Green’s recent struggles suggest he may find it difficult to adjust to McKinney’s chaotic approach, but his experience at 155 pounds should not be discounted. McKinney’s current win streak indicates he’s in good shape, and his willingness to engage early could force Green into a position where patience runs thin. Expect a fast‑paced opening round that could dictate the rest of the fight.

Pick: McKinney

Other Notable Card Highlights

Robert Whittaker makes a surprising light‑heavyweight debut against Nikita Krylov, giving fans a compelling closer to the preliminary bouts. Former champion Cody Garbrandt returns to face Adrian Yañez, while heavyweight wrestler Gable Steveson makes his UFC bow against Elisha Ellison. The undercard also features youthful talent like Luke Riley and Tracy Cortez, ensuring a full night of high‑energy action.

Quick Picks

• Robert Whittaker (-150) def. Nikita Krylov (+125)

• Gable Steveson (-3000) def. Elisha Ellison (+1150)

• Adrian Yañez (-450) def. Cody Garbrandt (+340)

• Luke Riley (-300) def. Kai Kamaka III (+240)

• Tracy Cortez (-105) def. Wang Cong (-115)

• Damian Pinas (-225) def. César Almeida (+185)

• Farid Basharat (-650) def. John Garza (+475)

• Zachary Reese (+110) def. Ryan Gandra (-135)

• Alessandro Costa (-275) def. Cody Durden (+225)

UFC 329 delivers a rare blend of nostalgia and fresh talent. McGregor’s return adds the headline allure, while a stacked undercard ensures every round delivers something compelling. Tune in for a night of high‑stakes MMA that could reshape the sport’s future.