Conor McGregor already plotting next UFC fight after Max Holloway in bid to avoid Dustin Poirier repeat

Conor McGregor has ambitions to fight multiple times with the UFC beyond his return against Max Holloway this weekend.

McGregor will return for the first time in five years at UFC 329 in a hotly-anticipated rematch with Max Holloway on Saturday night.

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The Irishman has had a turbulent time inside and outside of the cage in recent times, having lost an appeal in a civil case for rape.

Defeat for McGregor in his comeback would be a telling blow having won just one fight in the UFC since 2018, a routine win over Donald Cerrone in 2020.

But ‘The Notorious’ is brimming with confidence with two fights remaining on his current deal with Dana White‘s promotion.

And he isn’t here for a short stay, with plans already to fight again before the end of 2026.

He explained: “As you know, two fights left on the contract.

“It’s still as is. This one will be, then one. So I hope to keep going, and I’m optimistic that will be the case.

“I love fight night, fight week. And God willing, I’m back here next week and the week after, how many weeks is in a year?

“54? Here you go, I could fight every week if it’s a go, you know? Before the injury, I had maybe three within the year.

“People don’t recall that. And, yeah, there you go. We plan on getting busy here.

“I wish for a quick return. So if I’m the man in the arena, right?

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“I’m the one that’s making the walk. So if I’m the one who’s pushing further and campaigning for it, I’m sure that [will be] the case.”

Who could McGregor fight if he beats Holloway?

For McGregor, an abundance of options will likely fall in line if he defeats Holloway.

Paddy Pimblett, who fights on the UFC 329 undercard, has already suggested he wants to take on the former champion.

Justin Gaethje, the current UFC lightweight title holder, is also expected to be cageside to challenge the big-selling star.

McGregor himself has also spoken about a clash with Alexander Volkanovski, who believes he would pose a real danger to.

UFC Schedule

The UFC, on average, puts on 13 to 14 premium events in a calendar year, with up to 30 smaller ‘Fight Night’ cards allowing prospects and less experienced fighters to showcase their talents.

On January 1, 2026, Dana White’s promotion signed a seven-year broadcast deal with CBS and Paramount+ for exclusive rights in the US, meaning the UFC has put on shows like never before this year.

With the historic first event in the new Paramount era, UFC 324, delivering huge success, and a one-of-a-kind fight card at the White House in June opening up the UFC to a new audience, the promotion remains a premium global sports brand, and fans are eager to keep track of results and upcoming fights.

There are still several blockbuster shows and exciting contests for fight fans to look forward to in 2026, and you can find the full list of all confirmed events and official bouts as part of talkSPORT.com’s UFC schedule.

“I beat these men handily,” he added.

“Absolutely easily, and yet I go on my career, and I listen to this, that these men are better than me in the featherweight division even though I’ve beat them.

“Look, styles make fights. It’s not a good match-up for him. (Volkanovski) is a good fighter; he’s not a bad fighter. He’s not on the level of ‘The Mac.’”