# Conor McGregor Targets Max Holloway for Final UFC Contract Fight The former champion eyes a trilogy bout following his recent knee surgery recovery. - **Source:** [Sportstar](https://sportstar.thehindu.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-10 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/596c458d-f209-44be-a8c7-4504c1f57154 ## McGregor Eyes Trilogy Bout Conor McGregor has publicly identified Max Holloway as his preferred opponent for his final fight under his current UFC contract. The 38-year-old fighter expressed this desire during the BKFC Glasgow press conference. He emphasized that he wants to settle their series after their July rematch ended prematurely due to injury. ## Injury Impact on Rematch Their last encounter at UFC 329 on July 11 lasted only 69 seconds before being stopped. McGregor suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee while attempting a jumping kick. Holloway was subsequently awarded a first-round TKO victory, which leveled their head-to-head series at one win apiece. ## Recovery Timeline and Progress McGregor is currently three months removed from the surgical procedure required to repair his knee. He remains optimistic about a return before next summer, citing his previous recovery experience as a benchmark. He previously indicated that International Fight Week in 2027 serves as a potential target for his official comeback. ## Historical Context of Rivalry The two fighters first met in August 2013, where McGregor secured a unanimous decision victory. Notably, McGregor fought through a torn ACL in his left knee during that initial contest. This history of overcoming significant physical setbacks defines the narrative surrounding his potential return to the octagon for a third fight. ## Alternative Opponent Criteria While Holloway remains the primary target, McGregor acknowledged that external circumstances might necessitate a different opponent. If a trilogy bout proves impossible, he stated he would only consider fighters with world championship credentials or comparable professional accomplishments. This ensures his final contract appearance maintains a high level of competitive prestige. ## Pattern of Leg Injuries This recent knee surgery follows a series of severe physical issues for the former featherweight and lightweight champion. McGregor previously suffered a fractured left tibia and fibula against Dustin Poirier in July 2021. That injury kept him out of professional competition for five years before his return against Holloway. ## Holloway's Stance on Trilogy Max Holloway has indicated he is open to facing McGregor for a third time. Despite the abrupt ending of their last fight, the competitive nature of their series makes a rubber match a logical progression. Both parties seem willing to engage, provided the logistical and contractual requirements align for the promotion. ## Future Career Implications This upcoming fight represents the conclusion of McGregor's current UFC contract. His ability to return to elite form after multiple major surgeries remains a critical question for fans and analysts. The outcome of this potential trilogy will likely serve as a defining chapter in his long and storied combat sports career. ## Sources covering this story - https://sportstar.thehindu.com/other-sports/conor-mcgregor-max-holloway-ufc-fight-return-2027-summer/article71684933.ece — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._