McGregor's UFC Comeback Ends in 69 Seconds After Knee Injury

The Irish star's return against Max Holloway, nearly five years in the making, was over almost as soon as it began

Conor McGregor's long-awaited UFC return lasted just 69 seconds Saturday night, as the Irish former champion suffered a knee injury early in his fight against Max Holloway at UFC 329 in Las Vegas and was forced to retire, according to ESPN and the BBC.

McGregor injured his leg in the opening seconds of the bout, ESPN reported, ending a comeback nearly five years in the making since his last fight, a win over Donald Cerrone. Fox News reported the injury appeared to involve his knee.

ESPN said the abrupt end undercut any confidence that McGregor could return to the fighter he once was. Elsewhere on the card, Paddy Pimblett delivered what ESPN described as a breakout moment.

— Compiled from reporting by ESPN, the BBC and Fox News.