Conor McGregor's UFC return confirmed for July 2026 showdown with Max Holloway
Conor McGregor is set to return to the UFC after a long absence. UFC President Dana White confirmed the news on May 16, 2026. The former two-division champion will headline UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, facing Max Holloway in a highly anticipated bout.
Meanwhile, Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of MVP, has hinted at potential interest in signing McGregor should he become a free agent. Bidarian sees the Irish fighter’s comeback as a major opportunity for the promotion. McGregor’s return was officially announced by White, ending months of speculation. The fight against Holloway marks his first UFC appearance in years, reigniting fan excitement.
Bidarian, speaking about MVP’s ambitions, acknowledged McGregor’s star power. He did not dismiss the idea of bringing the fighter into the fold if contract negotiations with the UFC fell through. The goal, he noted, would be to secure McGregor a lucrative deal that reflects his market value.
McGregor’s highest-earning bout came outside the UFC, when he faced Floyd Mayweather in a 2017 boxing match. That fight remains one of the most profitable in combat sports history. For now, however, no concrete plans exist for McGregor to join MVP or face YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.
The focus remains on his UFC 329 showdown with Holloway. Fans and promoters alike are watching closely to see how this chapter unfolds for the Irish superstar. McGregor’s return to the UFC is confirmed for July 11, 2026, against Max Holloway. While MVP has expressed openness to future discussions, no official moves have been made. The outcome of his upcoming fight could shape his next career steps in mixed martial arts.
