Conor McGregor Returns at UFC 329

McGregor’s Long‑Absent Comeback

Conor McGregor, 37, steps back into the octagon this weekend at UFC 329 after a five‑year hiatus caused by a severe leg injury. He last fought in July 2021, suffering a first‑round TKO loss to Dustin Poirier after breaking his leg in the UFC 264 trilogy. The extended break and significant injury have many questioning whether the Irish fighter will retain his explosive striking and speed. McGregor’s record entering the fight is 22‑6 in mixed‑martial arts and 10‑4 inside the UFC. The bout is set for Saturday at the T‑Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, streamed live on Paramount+.

The event marks a rematch with Max Holloway, who holds an 27‑9 overall record and a 23‑9 UFC ledger. Holloway is eager to avenge his August 2013 unanimous decision loss to McGregor. Their original encounter took place at UFC Fight Night 26, a fight Holloway remembers as a tough defeat. This new showdown adds another chapter to a rivalry that has spanned over a decade.

Mendes on Seeing the Return

Chad Mendes, 41, admits he is surprised to see McGregor only days away from re‑entering the cage. Mendes fought McGregor exactly 11 years prior at UFC 189, a bout that left Mendes reflecting on how much has changed. After retiring from the UFC in 2018, Mendes briefly returned for two BKFC matches in 2022, giving him some insight into an aging fighter’s struggle to reclaim former glory. He says he never thought McGregor would return, given his wealth and fame. “I’m excited we are this close,” Mendes told MMA Junkie, noting the rarity of such a comeback.

Mendes believes the path is tough but not impossible. He draws parallels between his own comeback in bare‑knuckle fighting and what McGregor might face. The veteran fighter warns that age takes a toll—reaction time, speed, strength can all fade. Yet, if the athlete stays disciplined and mentally strong, Mendes sees a chance for McGregor to compete at a high level.

Legal Storm and Personal Turnaround

Beyond the sport, McGregor’s recent years have been mired in controversy. He was found liable for sexual assault by a jury in Ireland in 2024, a civil lawsuit that adds another layer to his public image. Mendes expresses hope that McGregor has truly turned his life around and found a spiritual awakening. He mentions seeing the fighter speak about feeling disgraced over his gifts and taking advantage of them. “If he truly sees that now and understands it, good on him,” Mendes adds, urging fans to witness the new version.

The veteran also notes the difference between McGregor’s prime—known for his chatter, wit, and entertaining style—and the athlete he might present today. The uncertainty surrounding his comeback makes the fight a major draw, promising viewers a chance to see who shows up inside the octagon.

Holloway the Favorite, but Mendes’ Take

If pressed for a pick, Mendes sides with Holloway and does so emphatically. He believes the fight may be closer than the odds suggest, acknowledging the doubts many have about McGregor’s readiness after such a long absence. “I think Max is going to stop him,” Mendes states, expressing confidence in Holloway’s ability to dominate. He notes that the speculation about McGregor’s condition will make the bout a compelling spectacle for fans. The prediction leans toward a Holloway victory, though Mendes admits the possibility of an upset can’t be ruled out.