Conor McGregor Discusses His Knee Injury from UFC 329

Conor McGregor has opened up about his right knee injury sustained during his short stint in the UFC Octagon on July 11 in Las Vegas.

After facing Max Holloway at UFC 329, where he suffered a technical knockout loss, McGregor expressed his surprise at discovering the extent of his injury. “Latest update: ACL and meniscus,” he posted on X.

He noted, “It was the same injury from my first fight against Holloway, but this time it occurred on the other leg. I was pretty shocked.” McGregor had previously fought Holloway 13 years ago, before rising to fame in mixed martial arts.

Despite this setback, he seems to be maintaining a positive attitude: “With today’s advances in regenerative medicine and improved training methods, it’s entirely possible to be back by next summer,” he stated. “I am walking without crutches. The other day, I did machine work on leg extensions without any issues. I can walk unassisted and activate my quadriceps even under resistance. Everything is looking positive. I’ve kept my discipline perfectly since the match.”

Reflecting on his situation, he remarked, “Could I have avoided something worse here? I think so. I could have been at the afterparty as ‘that guy,’ and who knows what could have happened. I feel like I’ve been saved. Thank you, God! No more sad stories. I appreciate the support and wish everyone well. Health is wealth.”

During the fight, McGregor attempted a flying roundhouse kick but landed poorly on the canvas, injuring his knee and immediately reacting to the pain.

Holloway tried to take advantage of McGregor’s misstep but, despite avoiding some serious hits, it was clear McGregor was not in good shape. Referee Mike Beltran called the fight just moments into the first round, awarding Holloway an unimpressive victory.

Post-fight, McGregor expressed his frustration, stating, “The head gasket is gone. Destroyed. I didn’t get hurt during training or backstage; it just happened out of nowhere. This is beyond dark for me—it’s absolutely hell.”

Interestingly, McGregor’s team shared pre-fight footage showing him rehearsing a flying roundhouse kick, which he executed flawlessly before the match.

The TKO loss brings McGregor’s UFC record to 22-7, but he seems determined to recover and return to the Octagon. Ending his career in such a manner is not something he envisions.