Who Will Be Conor McGregor's Final Opponent?

Conor McGregor is preparing for another return to the Octagon. Following his unsuccessful rematch with Max Holloway, the Irishman underwent knee surgery and now hopes to fight once more in the UFC. The former champion has one fight remaining on his current contract and has himself named Holloway as his preferred opponent. However, no final decision has been made.

We examine who McGregor could face in the last fight of his current contract and whether it will also be the final bout of his professional career.

Why Does McGregor Want to Fight Holloway Again?

Conor last stepped into the Octagon on 11 July 2026 at UFC 329 in Las Vegas. The Irishman returned after a five-year absence for a rematch against Max Holloway, whom he had defeated in 2013.

However, the eagerly anticipated contest ended after just 69 seconds. McGregor injured his right knee while attempting a jumping strike and was unable to continue. Holloway was awarded a technical knockout victory.

McGregor was subsequently diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus damage. He underwent surgery and began a lengthy rehabilitation process.

The result satisfied neither McGregor himself nor the fans who had hoped to see a proper contest between two former champions. The Irishman believes he had no opportunity to demonstrate how well he had prepared, so he is determined to secure a third meeting with Holloway.

In early November, Conor publicly stated that he wanted his next fight to be against the American. Holloway, for his part, also acknowledged that a trilogy was possible.

Max Holloway Is the Leading Candidate for McGregor's Last Fight

A third fight with Holloway looks the most likely scenario. The two already have a shared history, and their previous results leave room for a more conclusive end to the rivalry.

McGregor won their 2013 meeting by unanimous decision. Thirteen years later, Holloway levelled the series, although his victory came as a result of his opponent's injury. A third meeting would allow them to settle the rivalry without such circumstances.

On paper, it is also an attractive commercial proposition for the UFC: both fighters have substantial followings and could headline a major event, even after last summer's disappointing encounter.

Who Else Could McGregor Face?

Although Holloway remains the priority, the UFC could consider other opponents. McGregor himself has stressed that he is prepared to face a world-class fighter with championship credentials.

Several names stand out as possible alternatives:

• Michael Chandler. Their fight was scheduled for 2024 but was cancelled because of McGregor's injury. The history of the bout that never took place keeps the American in contention as a potential opponent for the former champion.
• Dustin Poirier. The two have already met in the Octagon three times, and tensions between them remain. Another meeting could attract considerable interest, but it would depend in part on whether Poirier is willing to come out of retirement.
• Nate Diaz. McGregor's rivalry with Diaz remains one of the best-known of his career. Their two fights left the series tied at 1–1, so MMA fans have long been interested in a third bout.

When Will McGregor's Final Fight Take Place?

The exact date of Conor's return remains unknown. Following his injury in July, the Irishman had hoped to recover in time for UFC International Fight Week in 2027. He subsequently suggested he might return to the Octagon even earlier. His manager, Audie Attar, has been more cautious. In November, Attar said he expected McGregor's final fight under his current contract to take place towards the end of 2027.

The differing estimates reflect the challenges of recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Before a date can be set, the fighter must regain mobility in his knee, rebuild his fitness and fully prepare for the physical demands of competition. Choosing an opponent is equally important. Even if McGregor receives medical clearance, the UFC will still need to agree the terms of the bout and find a suitable event.

Read our latest UFC fight predictions in the dedicated section of our website.