Conor McGregor Injured at UFC 329, Usman Voices Support

Conor McGregor tore his right knee in the opening minute of his 69‑second TKO loss to Max Holloway on 29 Jun 2026 at UFC 329, prompting former champion Kamaru Usman to publicly empathize with the Irish star’s plight.

What happened?

On 29 Jun 2026, McGregor attempted a running kick just seconds into the bout with Holloway. The move landed awkwardly, resulting in a catastrophic knee injury that forced the referee to stop the fight at 1:09 of round 1. The loss marked McGregor’s first fight after a five‑year hiatus and ended in a swift TKO.

Why Usman’s perspective matters

Usman, a former UFC welterweight champion returning from a 13‑month layoff, knows the toll injuries can take. He recalled his own torn hand ligament (2022), double hernia surgery (2019) and chronic knee issues dating back to a 2015 micro‑fracture. "I saw a lot of the backlash online and kind of how people were going at him," Usman told CBS Sports. "It’s a dark place to be."

How the injury impacts McGregor’s comeback

McGregor announced on Monday that he will undergo surgery followed by an extensive rehab program. The injury stalls his planned return to the octagon, which many expected in late 2026. With a 38‑year‑old body, the recovery timeline could push his next fight well into 2027, altering the UFC’s heavyweight landscape.

What does Usman say about the road ahead?

Usman believes McGregor’s resilience will guide him through the “dark days.” He noted, "No one, unless you are a fighter of his caliber, truly understands what he’s going through." Usman added that the glory of being a combatant fuels McGregor’s drive, even if the current setback feels like a setback.

What’s next for the UFC?

UFC 329’s fallout leaves a vacant spot in the featherweight division. Holloway moves forward with a decisive win, while McGregor’s recovery will dominate headlines. Fans can expect updates on his surgery and potential return dates as the promotion reshapes its fight card for the upcoming year.