Conor McGregor has turned down a UFC contract extension, leaving just two bouts on his current deal and potentially opening the door to a blockbuster Netflix super-fight once he reaches free agency. The Irishman is due to headline UFC 329 on July 11, marking his first Octagon appearance since suffering a broken leg at UFC 264 in July 2021.
McGregor’s return at UFC 329 and remaining deal
McGregor will rematch Max Holloway during International Fight Week, nearly 13 years on from their first meeting in Boston. The former two-division champion has not fought since UFC 264 and is scheduled to headline the July 11 card as one of the final two fights on his active contract. According to reports, those two bouts will be his last under the current agreement, with the second expected in the first half of 2027.
Inside scoop: rejected contract extension
Journalist Ariel Helwani revealed on Schein Time for the New York Post that UFC officials sought to secure McGregor with a fresh extension before finalising his UFC 329 return. “Conor comes back, they didn’t sign him to an extension. They wanted to, he didn’t want to,” Helwani said. The report underscores McGregor’s reluctance to commit long-term, preferring the freedom to explore opportunities once his remaining two fights are complete.
Implications for a Netflix super-fight
During his hiatus, McGregor has pursued ventures outside mixed martial arts, including part-ownership of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship and overtures towards boxing, having lost to Floyd Mayweather in 2017. Such contests remain off-limits while under UFC contract. However, his manager Audie Attar has insisted McGregor plans to stay active, which could pave the way for a late-2027 Netflix event. Netflix’s successful MMA debut, featuring Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano in May, has shown the platform’s willingness to invest heavily in combat sports.
With two fights left on his UFC deal, McGregor’s decision to decline an extension places his next steps firmly in the balance. Fans and industry figures alike will be watching UFC 329 closely, not only for the Hawaiian rematch but also for clues as to how McGregor’s future might unfold beyond the Octagon.
FAQ
How many fights remain on Conor McGregor’s UFC contract?
McGregor has two fights remaining on his current UFC deal: UFC 329 on July 11 and a second bout scheduled for the first half of 2027.
Who revealed that McGregor rejected a contract extension?
Journalist Ariel Helwani reported on Schein Time for the New York Post that UFC officials offered McGregor an extension before UFC 329, but the Irishman declined.
When will Conor McGregor return to the Octagon?
McGregor is set to return at UFC 329 on July 11, headlining International Fight Week with a rematch against Max Holloway.
What post-contract opportunity is being discussed?
McGregor’s manager, Audie Attar, has suggested the former champion could headline a Netflix super-fight in late 2027 after his UFC contract expires. This follows Netflix’s successful MMA event featuring Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano.