Conor McGregor will return to the UFC on July 11, 2026, to face Max Holloway at UFC 329 in Las Vegas [1], [2], [3].

This return marks the end of a long hiatus for one of the most recognizable figures in combat sports. His return is expected to drive significant viewership and revenue for the promotion as he attempts to reclaim his status at the top of the sport.

McGregor has been away from professional competition for five years [4]. His last appearance in the octagon occurred in July 2021 [5], a bout during which he suffered a broken lower tibia [5]. The recovery from that injury and subsequent time away have kept the fighter out of the rankings for several years.

During an appearance on The Tonight Show, McGregor said the upcoming fight and the history of his public persona. He explained the origin of his nickname, "The Notorious," detailing how the moniker became central to his brand and fighting style [6].

Beyond the immediate return, McGregor has plans for the remainder of his current contract. He has booked at least two more fights before he becomes a free agent [7], [8]. This strategy allows him to fulfill his current obligations while positioning himself for potential negotiations with other organizations or a new deal with the UFC.

The event will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada [2], [3]. This location serves as the primary hub for the UFC's largest spectacles, providing a high-profile stage for McGregor's first fight since 2021.

“Conor McGregor will return to the UFC on July 11, 2026”

McGregor's return is a strategic move for both the fighter and the UFC. By scheduling a high-profile matchup against Max Holloway after a five-year gap, the UFC is capitalizing on the commercial draw of a returning superstar. For McGregor, completing the final two bouts of his contract provides a clear path toward free agency, giving him maximum leverage to negotiate his future earnings in the combat sports market.