Conor McGregor shares encouraging recovery update after devastating injury at UFC 329
(Courtesy : UFC)
The former two-division champion remains optimistic despite suffering ACL and meniscus damage in his comeback defeat
Conor McGregor has provided an encouraging update on his recovery after the devastating knee injury that cut short his long-awaited UFC return at UFC 329.
Just one week after McGregor suffered a 69-second TKO loss to Max Holloway, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the Irish superstar sustained a torn ACL in his right knee and will require surgery. The setback has effectively ruled McGregor out for the foreseeable future, with any discussion about his next fight now firmly on hold.
Speaking at the post-fight press conference following UFC Oklahoma City, White made it clear that McGregor’s recovery is the only priority.
“His knee’s f*ed up.”
White explained that there is little point in discussing McGregor’s fighting future until he has fully recovered.
“He’s having knee surgery. That’s it. I mean, the Conor McGregor discussion isn’t even worth talking about. He’s got to have knee surgery. He’s going to have to go through physical therapy. It’s all going to take time. And then when the doctor says you can start hardcore training again, then we start talking about Conor McGregor again.”
Also read: When can Conor McGregor make his return after brutal injury at UFC 329? Potential timeline explained
Conor McGregor reveals positive early signs in recovery
Conor McGregor later shared additional details on social media, revealing that the injury was more extensive than initially believed.
“Update: It was ACL and meniscus. It is the same injury as the first Holloway fight, only this time the opposite leg. Quite shocking.”
Despite the diagnosis, the former featherweight and lightweight champion struck an optimistic tone while outlining his recovery plan.
“I returned to competition within 9 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.”
McGregor also revealed that his rehabilitation has already begun on a positive note.
“I am walking without a crutch. I done leg extension machine work the other day to no issue. So I can walk without aid, and activate my quad under resistance. All very positive.”
The 38-year-old added that he has remained fully committed to his rehabilitation since the injury.
“I am maximum discipline and have maintained it fully since the bout.”
UFC return remains the goal despite lengthy recovery
McGregor also reflected on the injury from a personal perspective, suggesting it may have prevented something worse from happening.
“I wonder was I saved from something worse here. I believe so. I would have attended the after party as ‘the man’ and who knows then. I believe I was saved.”
He concluded his message by thanking fans for their support.
“Thank you God! On we go, no sad stories. Thank you for the support and well wishes everyone, your health is your wealth.”
McGregor injured his knee after missing a flying switch kick during the opening seconds of his rematch with Max Holloway. The fight was stopped just 69 seconds later, with Holloway earning a TKO victory after McGregor failed to land a single significant strike.
Before UFC 329, McGregor had two fights remaining on his UFC contract and had discussed a potential return in April 2027 after facing Holloway. While that timeline is now uncertain following surgery, he has reiterated his intention to complete his UFC deal before exploring free agency.
McGregor has also stated that he wants his UFC 329 loss overturned to a no-contest, but for now, his focus remains firmly on recovery and returning to competition once he is medically cleared.
What injury did Conor McGregor suffer at UFC 329?
McGregor suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee during his rematch with Max Holloway and is scheduled to undergo surgery.
Has Conor McGregor shared a recovery update?
Yes. McGregor said he is already walking without crutches, has resumed light leg exercises, and remains optimistic about returning to competition.
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