Full Breakdown
Conor McGregor’s Post-UFC Future: Injury, Contract and Bare-Knuckle Ambitions
By Drooid · · How we work
Injury and Contract Status After UFC 329
On July 11, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena, Conor McGregor faced Max Holloway in a welterweight rematch. Within the opening minute, McGregor attempted a jumping switch kick, landed awkwardly and suffered a torn ACL and meniscus. Referee Mike Beltran stopped the bout at 1:09 of round 1, awarding Holloway a first-round TKO. The fight fulfilled the penultimate obligation on McGregor’s UFC contract, leaving him with one fight remaining before free agency.
Background & Context
McGregor, a former two-division champion, previously endured a broken leg in July 2021 against Dustin Poirier. In April 2024 he acquired a minority stake in the Bare-Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) through McGregor Sports and Entertainment and has been promoted as a part-time promoter. He has repeatedly signaled that he does not intend to re-sign with the UFC once his contract expires.
Data & Statistics
- UFC record since 2018: 3 wins, 5 losses.
- Contract status: one fight left, expected to be fulfilled in 2027.
- Recovery plan: nine to twelve months for full rehabilitation.
- BKFC ownership: minority partner since 2024, involved in promotion and matchmaking.
Official Statements & Responses
In a social-media video, McGregor described BKFC as “unstoppable” and expressed eagerness to compete there after his UFC obligations end. BKFC President David Feldman noted McGregor’s focus on transitioning to bare-knuckle boxing, emphasizing the promotion’s intent to feature him in a high-profile debut. Medical professionals overseeing his surgery have called his postoperative progress “impressive,” supporting the 9-12-month recovery window.
Criticism & Opposition
Former UFC lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez has voiced skepticism about McGregor’s ability to continue at a high level, arguing his body is “starting to give out” and warning that the ACL injury could be “dangerous” for a fighter in his mid-30s. He suggests the UFC may view McGregor as a bargaining chip and could schedule a matchup that undermines his market value.
Why It Matters / Impact
McGregor’s departure could shift fan interest and revenue toward BKFC, where his star power is expected to boost ticket sales and international exposure. For the UFC, losing a marquee name without a negotiated exit may affect future contract negotiations with other high-profile athletes. The situation also highlights broader questions about athlete longevity, injury management, and the strategic use of contract leverage in combat sports.
Verbatim Quotes
What’s Next
McGregor plans to complete rehabilitation over the next nine to twelve months, targeting a return in 2027. After his final UFC fight, he intends to sign a bare-knuckle boxing contract with BKFC, with discussions underway for a debut event in Dublin’s Croke Park. The exact opponent and timing remain undecided.