Conor McGregor stopped Chad Mendes by TKO in the second round of the interim featherweight title bout at UFC 189 on July 11, 2015. Eleven years later, on July 8, 2026, Mendes told MMA Junkie the night still feels like a win overall, even though he never captured UFC gold.
What happened at UFC 189?
Mendes stepped in with just ten days’ notice after Jose Aldo withdrew with a rib injury. He cut a massive amount of weight to make featherweight and faced the Irish phenom in Las Vegas. McGregor landed a crushing right hand at 4:59 of round two, forcing the referee to stop the fight. The bout was billed as an interim title clash, and McGregor’s victory moved him to 10‑4 in the UFC.
Why does Mendes view the loss as a win?
Mendes said the chaotic lead‑up gave him a taste of the sport’s unpredictability. He recalled the buzz on the Strip, Irish fans chanting, and the pressure of a last‑minute call. “Anything could happen,” he explained, noting that the experience pushed him to train harder and cemented his reputation as a top featherweight contender. The fight also kept him in the conversation for future title shots, something he values more than the belt itself.
How did the short‑notice fight affect Mendes’ preparation?
Mendes described a “training disaster.” He sparred with Mike Malott, a southpaw, and injured his foot on a low kick, forcing him to rely on swimming for cardio. For five days he could barely stand, let alone strike. Yet he managed to stay in shape enough to survive the bout, proving his resilience under adverse conditions.
What does this mean for Conor McGregor’s legacy?
McGregor’s win at UFC 189 added a featherweight title to his résumé and set the stage for his later move to lightweight, where he captured the belt from Eddie Alvarez. The fight remains a reference point when analysts discuss McGregor’s ability to adapt on short notice. Mendes’ reflection highlights how that night still shapes narratives around McGregor’s career, reinforcing his reputation as a fighter who thrives under pressure.
What’s next for the two athletes?
Mendes retired from competition after his December 2018 loss to Al Iaquinta and has not fought since. He now works as a commentator and trainer, using the UFC 189 story to motivate younger fighters. McGregor, meanwhile, is set to rematch Max Holloway at UFC 329 on July 13, 2026, ending a five‑year layoff. The upcoming headline bout will likely eclipse past memories, but the 2015 showdown will stay a pivotal chapter in both men’s histories.