Conor McGregor ruled out for a year following severe UFC 329 injury
Former champion Conor McGregor is expected to be sidelined until next July after suffering a torn ACL and meniscus against Max Holloway at UFC 329 in Las Vegas.
The Irishman collapsed to the mat just seconds into the main event on 11 July after throwing a single kick.
UFC president Dana White has now confirmed the severity of the issue, dismissing rumours that the 38-year-old carried a pre-existing condition into the octagon.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, White addressed footage of his star fighter performing leg exercises.
“I have no idea. We had him on FaceTime tonight, ringside, but you know, Conor McGregor’s out for a year.”
A familiar injury setback
Medical evaluations revealed extensive damage to the knee, mirroring the exact injury he suffered in his opposite leg during a points victory over Holloway 13 years ago.
This latest setback marks another extended absence for the former dual-weight champion, who was making his highly anticipated return after a five-year hiatus.
His previous appearance ended in similar agony when he sustained a broken leg during a second consecutive defeat by Dustin Poirier.
The Holloway bout also marked his first appearance since a civil jury found him liable for a 2018 sexual assault, a verdict he unsuccessfully appealed earlier this year.
Rehabilitation and future plans
Despite the severe diagnosis, the veteran fighter has already confirmed he will undergo surgery and remains optimistic about a swift recovery.
He has recently been seen operating weight-machine exercises, noting that he is walking without crutches and can activate his quad under resistance.
Addressing his supporters on social media, the Dublin-born fighter expressed confidence in modern regenerative medicine.
“I returned to competition within nine months to fight Diego Brandao back then. With today’s regenerative medicine advancements and improved training methods it is well within my realm to return by next summer.”
He added that he maintains absolute discipline as he navigates this latest career obstacle.