Conor McGregor has revealed that he gave up sex for the first time in his career ahead of his return to the octagon at UFC 329 this Saturday. The 37-year-old Irish mixed martial artist admitted the sacrifice during Wednesday's pre-fight press conference, as he prepares to face Max Holloway in a welterweight rematch at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
McGregor's new training tactic
“I’ve practiced abstaining also in this camp,” McGregor said. “It’s the first time I’ve ever done it — from any type of physical touch, if you will.” McGregor, who married longtime partner Dee Devlin seven months ago, described the experience as “been intense” but expressed excitement about the potential payoff on fight night.
“Hallelujah! The Mac is back,” he declared, displaying his characteristic confidence. “It is a colossal challenge ahead of me that I am entering with supreme confidence. It’s magnificent that the fire is in my belly roaring and is about to be released on Saturday night.”
A long-awaited rematch
Saturday's fight marks the first time in more than five years that McGregor will compete. His last bout was on July 10, 2021, when he suffered a horrific leg injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264, requiring emergency surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation. The injury sidelined him for years and sparked controversy, including reports that he used banned substances during his recovery.
McGregor quietly withdrew from the UFC's anti-doping program, removing himself from drug-testing requirements. He later accepted an 18-month suspension after missing three drug tests within a 12-month period in 2024. His manager, Audie Attar, stated to the New York Times that “even with surgery there was a real risk Conor might not walk again, a high likelihood he would face numerous lifelong side effects that would limit his mobility and serious doubts he would ever return to the octagon.” Attar did not confirm or deny the use of performance-enhancing drugs.
The first fight between McGregor and Holloway took place in 2013 as a featherweight bout, when neither was a major star. McGregor won by unanimous decision. Now, both fighters have established themselves as top competitors: McGregor holds a 22-6 record, while Holloway stands at 27-9.
Holloway's journey since 2013
Since McGregor's last fight, Holloway has competed eight times. He is not only seeking to avenge his 2013 loss but also to bounce back from a unanimous decision defeat to Charles Oliveira on March 7. Despite Holloway's active schedule, McGregor remains unfazed. “I plan to contort Max’s body into such uncomfortable positions and have my way with him,” he said.
McGregor suggested he is in peak condition for the bout. “It’s great to be back. Weight’s on point. Body’s on point. Mind sharper than ever. The plan is laid set. And I’m ready to go to war,” he stated at the press conference.
