MMA

Conor McGregor's Return Ends in Disaster at UFC 329 with Early Injury

July 18, 2026Diego Herrera2 мин

The mixed martial arts world was stunned at UFC 329 as Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the octagon was cut short just 69 seconds into his welterweight bout against Max Holloway. A severe knee injury sustained from an awkward landing after an initial spin kick immediately ended the fight.

While McGregor made his characteristic walk to the T-Mobile Arena, his comeback plans were instantly derailed. Holloway, who had closed as the betting favorite, ultimately emerged victorious. However, even Holloway appeared concerned, prompting the referee to stop the contest after witnessing McGregor's distress.

UFC 329 main event action

UFC 329 Main Card Features Quick Finishes and Upsets

Beyond the main event's unfortunate conclusion, UFC 329 delivered a night of action-packed fights, marked by several upsets and rapid-fire submissions on the main card.

UFC 329 Main Card Results

Fighters Weight Class Method Round / Time
Max Holloway def. Conor McGregor Welterweight TKO (knee injury) Round 1, 1:09
Paddy Pimblett def. Benoit Saint Denis Lightweight Technical Submission (D’Arce choke) Round 1, 0:52
Mario Bautista def. Cory Sandhagen Bantamweight Decision (unanimous) Round 3, 5:00
Brandon Royval def. Lone’er Kavanagh Flyweight Submission (rear-naked choke) Round 3, 3:39
King Green def. Terrance McKinney Lightweight TKO (punches) Round 1, 4:59

The night saw an exceptionally high rate of early finishes. Paddy Pimblett was particularly dominant, securing a swift submission that re-positions him in the lightweight title contention.

Betting Odds Analysis: Who Profited from UFC 329?

The pre-fight betting markets indicated apprehension regarding McGregor's lengthy layoff, and his subsequent injury reinforced these concerns. Despite rigorous training, athletes can still be susceptible to unexpected in-fight occurrences.

Here's a look at the final betting odds for the main card matchups:

  • Max Holloway (-275) vs. Conor McGregor (+225) - Holloway secured a win via doctor stoppage.
  • Benoit Saint Denis (-140) vs. Paddy Pimblett (+120) - Pimblett achieved a significant upset as the underdog.
  • Cory Sandhagen (-135) vs. Mario Bautista (+115) - Bautista's decision win disrupted many betting parlays.
  • Lone’er Kavanagh (-230) vs. Brandon Royval (+190) - Royval, the underdog, earned a thrilling submission victory.

UFC 329 generated a spectrum of reactions, from disappointment over McGregor's injury to exhilaration from the non-stop action throughout the card. The focus now shifts to Conor McGregor's recovery and the new opportunities awaiting Max Holloway in the welterweight division.

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