Conor McGregor returns to the UFC on July 11 to rematch Max Holloway at UFC 329 in Las Vegas, marking his first fight in nearly five years.
What happened to Conor McGregor?
The Irishman suffered a gruesome leg break in his last bout at UFC 264 in 2021, putting him on a long road of recovery.
He had planned to fight sooner, lining up a clash with Michael Chandler for June 2024, but a broken pinky toe forced McGregor to withdraw.
Why the long absence?
McGregor blames the UFC for his long absence, stating the question of why he has been out for so long is one for the UFC rather than him.
What's next for Conor McGregor?
McGregor has two fights left on his UFC contract, with the second bout scheduled for April 2027, nearly a year after his rematch with Holloway.
He expressed happiness with his current deal but hopes to do more with the company once his contract is completed.
The former two-division champion wants to prove his worth in his next two fights and potentially negotiate a new deal with the UFC.
McGregor's manager, Audie Attar, played a key role in negotiating his current contract, which McGregor describes as a "good, juicy one".
The UFC surprisingly didn't try to extend McGregor's contract ahead of negotiations for his return bout against Holloway.
McGregor was impressed by the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House and hopes to be part of similar big events in the future.
He believes his presence isn't necessary for these shows, but he'd love to get such experiences and be part of the spectacle.
McGregor is ecstatic about his upcoming fight and feels great, stating "The Mac is back, and I'm putting on a show here in this fight".