UFC 329 fight grades: Pimblett, Steveson shine despite McGregor scratch

UFC 329 survived Conor McGregor's eleventh-hour withdrawal with a leg injury Saturday night, thanks to breakout showings from Paddy Pimblett and Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson.

McGregor pulled out late in fight week after reaggravating a previous lower-leg issue, leaving the Las Vegas card without its marquee name. But Pimblett's third-round submission win and Steveson's dominant heavyweight debut kept the event from sliding into obscurity, according to ESPN's broadcast team.

Pimblett and Steveson carry UFC 329 card

The Liverpool lightweight finished his opponent with a rear-naked choke in the featured prelim, extending his UFC win streak. Steveson, making his first octagon appearance after a decorated wrestling career, controlled his heavyweight matchup from the opening bell and earned praise from UFC brass for his cage awareness.

Other notable performances included a comeback knockout on the main card and a controversial split decision that drew immediate calls for a rematch. The overall event grade reportedly came in higher than expected given the McGregor news, per ESPN's scoring system.

UFC 330 takes place in London on April 19, where Pimblett is expected to return on home soil.

Reported via:

• ESPN MMA — UFC 329 fight grades: Why Conor McGregor's injury didn't drag down the card