Pimblett didn’t waste much time before submitting Saint Denis in the first round with a Peruvian necktie. Following the win, Pimblett called out some big names such as Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje, Conor McGregor, and Max Holloway.

According to the fighter, he’s one of the most entertaining fighters on the roster, and fans are hyped to see him back in action soon. During the press conference, the fighter added Charles Oliveira to the list of expected opponents.

“I was talking about him just ten minutes ago. I’d submit Charles. I’ve got nothing but respect for Charles Oliveira. He’s an absolute legend in the sport, but he’s on his way out, and I think if he tried to grapple with me, I’d submit him. We’d probably end up having a war for five rounds on the feet, if I fight Charles Oliviera,” said Paddy Pimblett via UFC 329 post-fight presser.

Last year, Charles Oliveira got brutally knocked out by Ilia Topuria, and fans were sceptical about his UFC comeback. However, the Brazilian shocked everybody by bouncing back and winning the BMF belt by beating Max Holloway earlier this year.

Currently, the fighter is on a two-fight win streak and ranks #3 in the UFC lightweight rankings. Beating ‘Do Bronx’ can definitely help Pimblett to get one step closer to the title shot.

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Paddy Pimblett wants to be the next Conor McGregor

At the main event of UFC 329, Conor McGregor made his much-anticipated comeback against Max Holloway. The hype around it was massive; however, the fight turned out to be very anticlimactic.

McGregor injured his right knee in the first round while throwing a leg kick and started falling down repeatedly. The referee stopped the bout, and Holloway was given the win. Following his loss, Paddy Pimblett took the opportunity to share his unfiltered comments.

“Oh my god, McGregor’s done already? He’s finished; the new boy is in town. I can become the face of the organization now,” said Paddy Pimblett via UFC interview.

Pimblett has always been a huge fan of Conor McGregor, and fans have often compared his trash-talking persona with the ‘Notorious’. It would be interesting to see whether the fighter can become the next lightweight champion.

READ MORE: Was Conor McGregor vs Max Holloway 2 Rigged for Money?

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The bizarre ending left many fans questioning whether there was more to the story.

Why Fans Believe the Fight Was Rigged

The biggest theory circulating online is that McGregor’s return was orchestrated to generate excitement around the UFC’s new broadcast deal with Paramount+. Many pointed out that the promotion had struggled to deliver several blockbuster events in recent months, and bringing back the biggest star in MMA history instantly put the sport back in the headlines.

Some fans even claimed McGregor may have agreed to return simply to create buzz, arguing that the abrupt injury looked suspicious because it happened almost immediately after the fight began. Social media was flooded with claims that the fight had been “scripted” to benefit the UFC financially.

However, while those theories gained traction online, there is no evidence to support them.

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What Actually Happened

McGregor entered the fight looking aggressive and immediately launched a powerful kick in the opening seconds. As he planted his foot after the strike, his right knee appeared to buckle awkwardly. Despite trying to continue, he repeatedly lost his footing as Holloway began to pressure him with combinations.

Sensing his opponent was compromised, Holloway poured on the offense until the referee stepped in to stop the contest just 1:09 into the opening round, handing McGregor a heartbreaking TKO defeat in his first fight since 2021.

Why a Fixed Fight Makes Little Sense

While conspiracy theories are common whenever something unexpected happens in combat sports, this one doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.

For starters, there is no credible evidence suggesting the fight was fixed. McGregor suffered what appeared to be a genuine knee injury, with replays showing the damage occurring as he landed after throwing his opening kick.

From a business perspective, a rigged loss would also make very little sense. The UFC invested enormous time and money into promoting McGregor’s comeback after five years away. A healthy McGregor competing in a competitive main event—or even winning—would likely have generated far more revenue through future pay-per-view events, title opportunities and blockbuster fights than a 69-second injury stoppage.

Yes, McGregor’s return undoubtedly helped generate interest during the beginning of the UFC’s new era with Paramount+. But promoting the return of the company’s biggest superstar is very different from fixing the outcome of the fight.

Final Verdict

The timing of McGregor’s injury was shocking, and it’s understandable why some fans questioned what they had just witnessed. But extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, and none has been presented.

Everything currently points toward a freak injury that occurred seconds into the fight. McGregor’s comeback ended in heartbreak, Holloway capitalized to secure the biggest win of his career, and the conspiracy theories remain exactly that—unproven speculation rather than fact.

READ MORE: Jonathan Haggerty To Defend ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing Crown Against Former King Hiroki Akimoto

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Competing in the co-main event of UFC 329, Pimblett produced one of the most impressive performances of his career by submitting Benoît Saint Denis in just 52 seconds. The Englishman wasted no time, securing a slick guillotine-to-D’Arce choke sequence that forced Saint Denis unconscious and sent the Las Vegas crowd into a frenzy.

The victory was a huge statement for “The Baddy,” who entered the bout looking to rebound after losing a hard-fought unanimous decision to interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje earlier this year. Rather than allowing that defeat to derail his momentum, Pimblett returned sharper than ever, proving he is still very much a force in the UFC’s stacked 155-pound division.

Saint Denis was expected to provide one of the toughest tests of Pimblett’s career thanks to his relentless pressure and dangerous grappling. Instead, the French contender found himself caught almost immediately, with Pimblett displaying elite submission instincts to secure one of the fastest finishes of the night.

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Following the win, Pimblett made it clear that he wants to return to the title picture as soon as possible. He called for blockbuster matchups against some of the biggest names in the division, including Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje, Conor McGregor, and Max Holloway, as he looks to earn another shot at UFC gold.

With a spectacular 52-second submission victory, Paddy Pimblett has firmly reinserted himself into the lightweight title conversation. If he continues producing performances like this, another headline fight—and perhaps a championship opportunity—may not be far away.

READ MORE: Jonathan Haggerty To Defend ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing Crown Against Former King Hiroki Akimoto

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The rematch had been more than a decade in the making. Their first meeting in 2013 marked the beginning of McGregor’s rise to superstardom, and fans eagerly anticipated seeing the former two-division UFC champion share the cage with Holloway once again. Instead, the contest came to an abrupt and unfortunate end before either fighter had the opportunity to showcase their skills.

Just moments into the opening round, McGregor threw an early kick before his knee appeared to buckle underneath him. The Irishman immediately lost his balance and crashed to the canvas in visible pain. Holloway instinctively moved in to capitalize, landing several unanswered strikes as McGregor struggled to regain his footing.

Despite attempting to continue, McGregor was clearly unable to stand properly, forcing the referee to step in and wave off the contest. Holloway was awarded the victory via first-round TKO, although neither fighter looked satisfied with the manner in which the fight concluded.

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For Holloway, it was a bittersweet moment. The Hawaiian veteran finally earned a win over the man who handed him his UFC debut defeat back in 2013, but it came under circumstances that no fighter hopes for. Rather than celebrating an emphatic finish after a competitive battle, Holloway was left showing concern for his injured opponent as medical personnel rushed into the cage.

The defeat is another crushing setback for McGregor, whose career has been plagued by injuries in recent years. After spending years recovering from the broken leg he suffered against Dustin Poirier in 2021, the former champion entered UFC 329 determined to prove he could once again compete among the sport’s elite. Instead, another serious leg injury has cast fresh doubt over his fighting future.

Questions will inevitably be asked about whether McGregor will attempt another comeback. At 38 years old and following another significant injury, the road back to championship contention appears steeper than ever. Nevertheless, McGregor has built his career on defying expectations, and it would be premature to completely rule out another return until the extent of his injury is fully understood.

As for Holloway, the victory keeps him firmly in the conversation among the UFC’s biggest stars. While he would undoubtedly have preferred a definitive finish in a competitive contest, a win over one of mixed martial arts’ most recognizable names further strengthens his already remarkable résumé.

Unfortunately for fans, UFC 329 will not be remembered for an instant classic between two legends. Instead, it will be remembered as the night Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated comeback ended almost as soon as it began, leaving the MMA world hoping one of the sport’s greatest icons can recover once again.

READ MORE: Jonathan Haggerty To Defend ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing Crown Against Former King Hiroki Akimoto

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In the co-main event, Paddy Pimblett faces Benoit Saint-Denis in a highly anticipated lightweight contest with significant implications for both contenders. Before the action begins, let’s examine both fighters’ strengths, weaknesses, and overall chances of securing an important victory.

Paddy Pimblett

Paddy Pimblett is one of the UFC’s biggest stars despite suffering his first promotional defeat against Justin Gaethje earlier this year. Gaethje earned a unanimous decision victory in January, ending Pimblett’s unbeaten UFC record and temporarily halting his momentum.

Now, Pimblett has an important opportunity to rebound with a statement performance and reestablish himself among the division’s top contenders. Currently ranked #9, a convincing victory over Benoit Saint-Denis could significantly improve his standing and strengthen future lightweight title aspirations.

Benoit Saint-Denis

Benoit Saint-Denis is riding an impressive four-fight winning streak, defeating notable opponents including Beneil Dariush, Dan Hooker, and Maurício Ruffy. The lightweight has long targeted a UFC title opportunity and believes defeating Paddy Pimblett will finally earn that chance.

Currently ranked #5, Saint-Denis knows another statement victory could move him within two fights of challenging Justin Gaethje for lightweight gold. With momentum firmly on his side, the confident Frenchman believes he possesses every tool necessary to overcome Pimblett and continue climbing upward.

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Tale of the Tape

Fight analysis

Paddy Pimblett’s well-rounded grappling, improving striking, and composure under pressure could neutralize Benoit Saint-Denis’ relentless aggression throughout the fight. Saint-Denis is known for constantly pushing forward with powerful combinations and submission threats, yet his aggressive style sometimes leaves defensive openings.

Pimblett’s ability to control distance, mix wrestling with calculated striking, and manage the fight’s tempo may prove decisive over fifteen minutes.
Expect Pimblett to gradually outscore Saint-Denis across three competitive rounds, earning a hard-fought unanimous decision through superior versatility and consistent tactical execution.

Final Prediction: Paddy Pimblett via unanimous decision.

READ MORE: Jonathan Haggerty To Defend ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing Crown Against Former King Hiroki Akimoto

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The bad blood between the two dates back several years and has only intensified through exchanges in interviews and on social media.Speaking about the possibility of finally facing Topuria, Pimblett didn’t hold back.

“Of course I still want to punch the little b***h’s head in. I know how fake he is and I know he deserves a beating. He got the beating he deserved off Justin but he deserves another one from me.”

Pimblett was referring to Topuria’s recent loss to Justin Gaethje, a defeat that ended the Spaniard’s unbeaten run and reshuffled the lightweight title picture.

Despite that setback, Pimblett believes the rivalry between the two remains one of the biggest grudge matches the UFC can make.

The pair have shared a heated history since their infamous altercation at a London hotel in 2022, where a confrontation between the two camps went viral. Since then, both fighters have repeatedly traded insults whenever asked about one another.

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While Topuria’s immediate future in the lightweight division remains uncertain following his defeat, Pimblett is continuing his rise through the rankings and believes a clash between them is inevitable.

Whether the UFC decides to book the fight next or waits until both men are even closer to title contention, the animosity between Pimblett and Topuria shows no signs of fading. If the matchup is eventually made, it promises to be one of the most personal and emotionally charged fights on the UFC roster.

READ MORE: Jaradchai Maxjandee Eyes Fourth Straight Finish Against Othman Rhouni

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The comment came as McGregor reflected on his legendary featherweight run, where he captured the UFC featherweight title with a stunning 13-second knockout of José Aldo in 2015 before moving up in weight to achieve further success.

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However, it appears Max Holloway’s previous comments about the Irishman did not sit well with “The Notorious.”

“Its almost disrespectful. I’m not sure who [Max] thinks he’s talking to here,” McGregor said while responding to Holloway’s remarks.

McGregor went on to defend his legacy at 145 pounds, insisting that his accomplishments remain unmatched. Despite spending the majority of the last decade competing at lightweight and welterweight, he believes his impact on the featherweight division continues to stand above everyone else’s.

The rivalry between McGregor and Holloway dates back to August 2013, when the Irishman defeated a 21-year-old Holloway by unanimous decision in Boston. Since then, Holloway has evolved into one of the greatest featherweights in UFC history, becoming champion and setting multiple records for wins and significant strikes in the division.

Now, with the pair preparing to meet once again, the verbal exchanges have intensified. McGregor is standing firmly behind his belief that his prime featherweight run remains one of the greatest the sport has ever seen, while Holloway has built a résumé that many fans believe rivals or even surpasses it.

With both men holding legendary status in mixed martial arts, their rematch carries significant historical weight. Whether McGregor can back up his latest claim inside the Octagon remains to be seen, but his confidence has never wavered as fight night approaches.

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Conor McGregor

McGregor remains one of the most dangerous strikers the UFC has ever seen. His precision, timing and devastating left hand have produced some of the most iconic knockouts in MMA history. He also owns a two-inch reach advantage over Holloway, giving him another weapon to control the distance. However, after years away from competition, the biggest questions surround his cardio, durability and whether he can still perform at championship level over five rounds.

Max Holloway

Holloway has evolved into one of the greatest featherweights in UFC history since losing to McGregor in 2013. His relentless pace, elite boxing combinations and legendary durability make him one of the toughest fighters to beat. Holloway’s ability to increase his output as fights progress has repeatedly overwhelmed elite opponents, and his championship experience gives him a significant advantage heading into another five-round contest.

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Tale of the Tape

How to Watch

Event: UFC 329
Main Event: Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway 2
Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
Date: July 11, 2026

Fight Analysis

The first two rounds are where McGregor is at his most dangerous. His ability to counter with precision and finish fights early means Holloway cannot afford to make mistakes. Expect McGregor to have success if he can keep the fight at boxing range and land his trademark left hand before Holloway settles into his rhythm.

For Holloway, the key will be surviving the early storm and forcing McGregor into deep waters. His relentless pressure, superior cardio and constant volume have worn down some of the best fighters in the world. If the fight reaches the championship rounds, Holloway’s pace and activity could become too much for McGregor, especially after such a lengthy layoff from competition.

Prediction

This feels like a fight where both men will have their moments. McGregor should enjoy success early with his speed and accuracy, but Holloway’s durability has been proven time and again against elite competition. As the rounds progress, Holloway’s relentless pace and volume are likely to wear McGregor down, forcing him to fight at a tempo he may struggle to maintain after years away from the Octagon. While an early McGregor knockout cannot be ruled out, Holloway has more paths to victory over five rounds and should gradually take control before earning a late stoppage.

Max Holloway def. Conor McGregor via TKO (Round 4).

READ MORE: Islam Makhachev Receives Russia’s Highest Sporting Honor

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According to Spinnin Backfist, Ruffy is traveling to the fight week location in case either Holloway or McGregor is unable to compete. While the UFC has not officially confirmed the move, it would ensure the main event remains intact if an unexpected withdrawal occurs.

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A Huge Opportunity for Ruffy

Ruffy has quickly established himself as one of the UFC’s most exciting prospects thanks to his explosive striking and highlight-reel finishes. Being selected as a backup for one of the biggest fights of the year is another sign that the promotion has significant confidence in the Brazilian.

Although backup fighters often never step into the Octagon, simply being in position for a career-defining opportunity can dramatically raise a fighter’s profile.

For Ruffy, it means he’ll need to complete a full fight camp, make weight, and be ready to compete on short notice against either Holloway or McGregor if required.

Holloway vs. McGregor Still Set

As things stand, Max Holloway and Conor McGregor remain on course to headline the event. The matchup has generated enormous excitement, with fans eager to see McGregor return against one of the UFC’s most accomplished and durable fighters.

If both men make it to fight night, Ruffy’s role will end as insurance. However, if unforeseen circumstances force either fighter out, the Brazilian could find himself thrust into the biggest fight of his career on just hours’ notice.

READ MORE: Islam Makhachev Receives Russia’s Highest Sporting Honor

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Speaking during an appearance with Ariel Helwani, Till criticized both the quality of recent UFC cards and what he sees as Dana White’s dismissive attitude toward media questions.

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Darren Till says the UFC has lost its biggest stars

Till admitted he has largely stopped following the UFC, claiming the promotion isn’t as exciting as it once was.

“I think he’s switched off from the UFC.”

He went on to explain that, in his opinion, the current fight cards don’t carry the same appeal they did in previous years, when household names regularly headlined major events. While the UFC continues to produce elite talent, Till believes the lack of crossover stars has affected his interest in watching.

Till takes aim at Dana White’s media approach

The Liverpool native also criticized UFC CEO Dana White’s interactions with reporters during post-event press conferences.

“Every time Dana is in a scrum, when they ask questions… He’s like, ‘who gives a sht?’ We give a sht, I give a sh*t, so give us an answer badly and take your ego away.”

Till suggested that fans and journalists deserve more direct answers from the UFC boss, arguing that the media asks questions because the audience genuinely wants those answers.

Darren Till’s relationship with the UFC

Till last competed in the UFC in December 2022 before parting ways with the promotion in early 2023. Since then, he has focused on his boxing career, competing under Misfits Boxing while also teasing a return to mixed martial arts in the future.

Despite no longer being part of the UFC roster, Till has remained outspoken about the promotion and continues to share his views on the state of MMA. His latest comments are likely to spark debate among fans, especially as discussions around the UFC’s current star power continue to divide opinion.

READ MORE: Islam Makhachev Receives Russia’s Highest Sporting Honor

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