Conor McGregor returns to UFC 329, faces Max Holloway in welterweight bout

UFC superstar Conor McGregor is making his comeback after a five‑year hiatus at UFC 329 on July 11, 2026. The fight will take place at the T‑Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and marks McGregor’s first appearance at welterweight (170 lb). His opponent is former featherweight champion Max Holloway, who is moving up to welterweight for the first time.

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev praised McGregor’s return, calling him a “big name for our sport” and predicting that Holloway will defeat him. Oddsmakers have Holloway as a strong favorite, reflecting his recent activity and size advantage. Makhachev’s comments underscore the commercial impact of McGregor’s return, which is expected to draw considerable attention and revenue for the UFC.

The bout is being billed as one of the marquee events of International Fight Week, with implications for the welterweight division’s landscape depending on the result.