Conor McGregor has fifth knee surgery after UFC 329

Mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor has undergone surgery to repair significant knee injuries sustained during his recent return to the Octagon, casting uncertainty over the timeline for his planned final fight. The former two-division UFC champion confirmed the procedure, his fifth career surgery, after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus in his right knee during his rematch with Max Holloway at UFC 329 in Las Vegas on July 11.

The injury occurred just 69 seconds into the welterweight bout, one of the most anticipated fights of the year. McGregor threw an early kick that caused the damage, after which he struggled to plant his foot and repeatedly fell to the canvas, prompting the referee to stop the contest. The fight marked McGregor's first appearance since July 2025, ending a comeback attempt that lasted little over a minute.

In social media updates, McGregor expressed confidence following the operation, stating the surgery went excellently. He had previously announced his intention to undergo the procedure, telling fans he was heading in for surgery and urging them to wish him well. The injury is a familiar setback for the Irish fighter; he suffered...