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.

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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.

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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