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Joe Rogan Explains What Led to Conor McGregor's UFC 329 Injury

By Cole Sullivan Men's Journal

One of the most anticlimactic moments in recent sports history unfolded Saturday night at UFC 329 when Conor McGregor suffered a knee injury almost immediately into his main event fight against Max Holloway.

The buildup and anticipation were palpable, largely because the fight marked McGregor's return to the Octagon after a five-year layoff.

However, moments after the opening bell, McGregor attempted a flying kick and landed awkwardly, appearing to suffer the injury in the process. The fight was stopped just over a minute later.

After the fight, UFC commentator Joe Rogan shared his analysis of what happened to McGregor and explained how he believes the injury occurred.

"He just tried a crazy move," Rogan said following the fight. "He tried a crazy move. He tried a jumping roundhouse kick and when you're in that position when you throw that jumping roundhouse kick, if you don't land in a good way with the supporting leg, you put so much pressure on that knee.

"The way he landed, he threw the kick, he jumped up, he threw it and he landed with his knee in the worst position."

According to UFC President Dana White, the full extent of McGregor's injury has not yet been made public. However, many believe he suffered a torn ACL, which would likely require another lengthy recovery.

Despite the setback, McGregor shared several posts on social media after the fight and vowed to return.

"I was so sharp and so ready for this fight I cannot believe what has happened," McGregor said. "The talk of me being off while walking in to the fight is nonsense. I was calm, ready, and confident. I am in shock what has taken place. The devil is literally staring at me right in front of my face here. I am not engaging. I will be at church tomorrow. I will overcome this. I will not be deterred. I will return."

Related: Conor McGregor Releases Statement After UFC 329 Injury

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jul 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published July 12, 2026 at 11:28 AM.