Conor McGregor's Disastrous Return: Injury and Controversy at UFC 329
The mixed martial arts world is still reeling from the fallout of UFC 329, where Conor McGregor's long-awaited return ended in a painful loss to Max Holloway. McGregor, who had not fought since breaking his leg in 2021, was stopped by Holloway in the second round. In the days since, multiple fighters and analysts have weighed in on what went wrong.
Israel Adesanya was among the first to suggest McGregor entered the cage already compromised. "I have eyes," Adesanya said on July 16, 2026, adding that he suspected McGregor was injured prior to the walkout. McGregor himself has called for the result to be overturned, claiming the bout should be a no contest. His coach John Kavanagh detailed the moment the injury happened, though the exact nature remains undisclosed.
McGregor has also received support from unexpected corners. Dillon Danis launched an impassioned defence of his "brother," telling critics they should not be making fun of the Irishman. Colby Covington, who has his own feud with Dustin Poirier, defended McGregor from what he called "fraud" attacks. Meanwhile, figures like Frankie Edgar and Michael Bisping have offered measured perspectives on the former champion's desire to continue chasing glory.
The event itself drew nearly 16 million viewers, a testament to McGregor's undeniable star power even in defeat. But the loss raises serious questions about whether he can ever reclaim his former standing in the UFC. Michael Chandler, who was originally scheduled to fight McGregor, shut down conspiracy theories about the injury, stating: "He's not a quitter."
Jon Jones Admits Intimidation by Ciryl Gane, Eyes Aspinall Rematch
In a separate development, heavyweight champion Jon Jones has opened up about his first-round win over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 in 2023. Speaking on July 16, 2026, Jones admitted that Gane's physique and skill set "intimidated" him before the fight. "I was nervous, I won't lie," Jones said. "He's a dangerous man."
Jones went on to predict a potential rematch between Gane and interim champion Tom Aspinall. He picked Gane to win that fight, citing the Frenchman's striking versatility and improved takedown defence. "Aspinall is tough, but Ciryl has evolved since we fought. I think he takes the rematch," Jones added.
The comments come amid ongoing speculation about Jones's own future. He has repeatedly expressed interest in a boxing super fight with Oleksandr Usyk, but has counter-offered terms that the Ukrainian has yet to accept. Jones also turned down a scheduled bout with Aspinall earlier this year, leading to the interim title being created.
Dana White has expressed frustration with Jones's inactivity, but the champion remains a pivotal figure in the division. If Gane and Aspinall rematch, the winner would likely face Jones for undisputed gold later in 2027.
Dricus du Plessis Faces Kamaru Usman at UFC Oklahoma City
Middleweight contender Dricus du Plessis returns to action this Saturday at UFC Oklahoma City against former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. The bout is a pivotal crossroads for both men. Du Plessis lost his middleweight title in a one-sided unanimous decision to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 in August 2025. He admitted this week that accepting the loss was tough: "You can't help it," he said.
Now, du Plessis plans to prove he is still "the best in the world." His coach, Morne Visser, believes a win over Usman will earn them a title shot. "We all saw what Dricus did to Khamzat early in the fight," Visser said, referring to a competitive first round before Chimaev's wrestling took over. Visser also warned Usman not to engage in a striking match with du Plessis.
Usman, for his part, recalled sparring sessions with du Plessis years ago. "He swings hard," Usman said on July 16, 2026. "But I've been in there with the best. I'm not intimidated." Usman recently stated that a win over du Plessis could earn him a fight against Sean Strickland or Islam Makhachev next, depending on the UFC's plans.
The card also features undefeated newcomers and a welterweight co-main event between Colby Covington and an opponent still to be announced. UFC Oklahoma City will be a critical proving ground for the middleweight division.
What's Next for the Stars of MMA
The immediate future of Conor McGregor remains unclear. He has hinted at a rematch with Holloway, but the UFC may prefer to book him against Michael Chandler, a fight that has been teased for years. Given the injury concerns, a period of recovery seems likely. McGregor's coach John Kavanagh has not ruled out a return by early 2027, but the window for a title run is narrowing as the 38-year-old ages.
For Jon Jones, the path is similarly uncertain. A boxing match with Usyk would be the biggest financial opportunity of his career, but the UFC's reluctance to cross-promote has stalled negotiations. Meanwhile, the winner of a potential Gane vs Aspinall rematch could force Jones's hand. Expect clarity by the end of 2026.
Dricus du Plessis faces a must-win scenario. A loss to Usman would drop him to two consecutive defeats and likely out of title contention. A win, however, positions him for a rematch with Chimaev or a title shot against Strickland, especially if Strickland beats Chimaev in their rumoured rematch. The middleweight division is in flux, and du Plessis's performance at UFC Oklahoma City will ripple through the rankings.
Other Key Fallout from a Busy Week in Combat Sports
Beyond the headline stories, several other developments merit attention. Justin Gaethje lost the Fighter of the Year ESPY to boxer Terence Crawford, prompting his manager to call the decision "crazy." Gaethje also dismissed the notion of a rematch with Paddy Pimblett, saying he is not "destined" for that fight. Pimblett, meanwhile, earned a spectacular submission at UFC 329 and has called for a fight with Ilia Topuria, though Michael Bisping doubts Topuria still wants that matchup.
Cody Garbrandt suffered another knockout loss to Adrian Yanez at UFC 329 and has penned a cryptic message about his future. TJ Dillashaw expressed being "depressed" by his former rival's continued struggles. Garbrandt insisted he is not retiring yet, but at 34, time is running out for the former bantamweight champion.
In other news, Jake Paul is still chasing a Nate Diaz fight in MMA while being open to boxing Floyd Mayweather. Jon Jones also counter-offered Usyk, and Khamzat Chimaev continues to push for a rematch with Sean Strickland. The sport moves at a relentless pace, and every week brings new storylines. UFC 329 may be over, but the conversation around it is far from finished.
