McGregor Breaks Silence Ahead of UFC 329 Return - 'I Am Better Than Ever'

Conor McGregor has spoken publicly for the first time ahead of his UFC 329 return, saying he is in the best shape of his career.

McGregor steps back into the Octagon at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on July 11, nearly five years after his last appearance at UFC 264 in July 2021, when a broken leg ended his fight against Dustin Poirier in the first round — his second consecutive loss to the same opponent. The return is against Max Holloway in a welterweight rematch, headlining the UFC's most significant annual card.

The history with Holloway stretches back to August 2013. McGregor took the unanimous decision, though the circumstances of the fight carry their own footnote — he tore his ACL during the contest and still won. Both men have travelled considerable distances since that preliminary card appearance. Holloway became a featherweight and BMF champion.

Meanwhile, McGregor became the sport's biggest star, unified the featherweight and lightweight titles simultaneously, and then spent five years away from competition navigating injuries, legal matters, and the business of being the most recognisable name in combat sports. McGregor's claim that he is in the best shape of his career will be tested over five rounds against a durable fighter, whose conditioning is among the most respected in the sport.

McGregor Reacts

“Thank you for all the love, support, and encouragement over the last few days, people. I am feeling very energised entering intense training camp because of it. I am very grateful for the team I have around me. My coaches and training partners, we are all fully tuned in for the challenge at hand and it is a glorious time in our gym.

“Swipe to see an incredible snap shot of sparring with my long time training partner and friend, @nicolosolli_mma, who is in phenomenal condition pushing me hard, with coaches monitoring our every exchange. I am better than ever, and I relish the opportunity to once again show my mastery in martial arts to the world. Lord Jesus in your name, please, to inspire the next generation to come! Amen,” McGregor