Conor McGregor withdraws after leg injury in 69-second UFC 329 bout

Conor McGregor was forced to retire from his UFC 329 main-event bout against Max Holloway after injuring his right leg within the opening minute. The fight was halted at 1 minute, 9 seconds, awarding Holloway a technical knockout.

McGregor appeared to be hurt when his jump kick landed awkwardly, causing him to fall to the canvas and later struggle to stand. Referee intervention ended the contest as the Irish fighter could not continue.

"During the fight, you could see his demeanor change. When I saw him hurt, I said, 'Call this. He's hurt.' I just hope for a speedy recovery," Holloway said.

McGregor posted on social media later, stating the injury occurred during the fight and denying prior issues. He described the incident as unexpected and expressed frustration.

UFC CEO Dana White, speaking at a post-fight news conference, said the injury appeared to be a torn ACL, noting that doctors had reached a similar conclusion.

The bout marked a brief rematch of the two former featherweight champions, now competing at welterweight, and ended far earlier than anticipated.