Conor McGregor (22-7) posted a video, citing two legendary UFC champions when revealing what’s motivating him to return to the Octagon once again, following the torn ACL and meniscus he suffered in the opening seconds of his comeback fight during vs Max Holloway (28-9) on July 11.
During a video address, McGregor can be seen with a leg brace as he begins his road to recovery, following successful surgery earlier this week. He mentions being inspired by UFC Hall of Famers Georges St-Pierre and Dominick Cruz, both who returned from ACL surgeries to continue their successful MMA careers. “Surgery was a success,” McGregor said. “Now, I’m on the road to recovery.”
“I want to give a shout-out to Dominick Cruz who returned from multiple ACLs to recapture his bantamweight crown, and Georges St-Pierre, who had multiple ACLs. Tom Brady done it. Aaron [Rodgers]. These are my motivations, here. Especially my fighting boys.”
Surgery done.
Knee repaired.
The doubters can keep talking.
I didn’t run from the pain.
I walked straight into it.
Now the real work begins.
Comeback season starts now.
No shortcuts. No excuses.
Just the will to rise again. pic.twitter.com/Oq77VDX3IJ— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) August 7, 2026
McGregor had previously said he intends to compete in his “Last dance” in July, 2027. He wants the last fight on his UFC contract to come against Holloway, whom he has a 1-1 rivalry with.