Conor McGregor appears to be seriously preparing for a potential return to the UFC Octagon. After years of anticipation that repeatedly failed to materialize, leading to dwindling fan interest, “The Notorious” is showing renewed commitment.
Previously scheduled to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in June 2024, McGregor withdrew due to a toe injury, further delaying his comeback. While McGregor has expressed interest in competing at a White House event and re-entered the anti-doping testing pool, UFC CEO Dana White downplayed these plans, and it was confirmed he would not fight at UFC Freedom 250.
However, new evidence suggests Conor McGregor might finally have a return date on the horizon. The 37-year-old Irishman recently posted a series of intense sparring photos on Instagram. His accompanying caption, “Legs still sharper than a guillotine. Training with the young wolves, sharpening the blade. The return is coming whether they like it or not,” sent a strong message to doubters.
Ariel Helwani Reports Potential Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway Rematch at UFC 329
Veteran MMA journalist Ariel Helwani reported on his show that a potential return fight for Conor McGregor against Max Holloway at UFC 329 is being seriously considered. The event is scheduled for July 11th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, marking the conclusion of International Fight Week 2026.
McGregor has been inactive since fracturing his leg in his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. His last victory was a quick 40-second knockout over Donald Cerrone in January 2020 at UFC 246.
Max Holloway, “Blessed,” last competed at UFC 326, where he lost his BMF title to Charles Oliveira by unanimous decision. Before that, Holloway defeated Poirier at UFC 318 in July 2025.
The initial encounter between McGregor and Holloway took place at UFC Boston in August 2014, with McGregor winning by unanimous decision.
