Conor McGregor Announces ACL Tear After Choppy UFC 329 Appearance

Severe Injury Confirmed

Conor McGregor has disclosed that his brief return at UFC 329 against Max Holloway ended with a torn right ACL and meniscus damage. The fight, held on July 11 in Las Vegas, lasted just 1:09 before the injuries forced an early stoppage. McGregor posted the grim update on X, noting the injury mirrors a 2013 setback in the opposite leg against the same opponent.

From Surgery to a Future Return

McGregor underwent surgery last week and reports he can already walk without crutches. He expressed optimism about returning to the octagon as early as 2027, citing advances in regenerative medicine and training methods. “With today’s regenerative medicine advancements and improved training methods it is well within my realm to return by next summer,” he wrote.

Past Comeback Context

The fighter previously managed a comeback just nine months after a prior injury to face Diego Brandao. That earlier recovery set a benchmark for his current rehabilitation timeline. He hopes the lessons learned then, combined with modern medical progress, will accelerate his return to competition.

In a brief statement, the fighter emphasized the shock of the latest injury: “Quite shocking.” He remains focused on a potential return later next year, aiming to recapture the form that made him a standout in mixed‑martial arts.

Stay tuned to AP MMA for updates on McGregor’s rehab progress and future fight prospects.