Conor McGregor reveals emotional reason behind UFC comeback ahead of Max Holloway rematch

Conor McGregor has revealed that his long-awaited UFC comeback is being driven by a desire to prove himself to his four children.

The Irishman will return to the Octagon for the first time in five years when he faces Max Holloway in a huge rematch at UFC 329 in Las Vegas early on Sunday morning.

McGregor has not competed since suffering a devastating broken leg during his trilogy contest with Dustin Poirier in July 2021.

The 37-year-old subsequently promised to complete the “greatest comeback of all time”, and he now insists following through on that pledge has become a deeply personal mission.

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Asked whether his return was partly for his children, McGregor told The Sun: “100 per cent, [it’s for my kids]. 100 per cent.

“It’s critical, it’s crucial for me to do it [for them]. I must do it.”

The former two-weight UFC champion has four children with his partner Dee Devlin and believes they have provided an added source of motivation during the most difficult period of his fighting career.

His return will come against Holloway in the main event of UFC 329.

McGregor's focus has been on rebuilding his body following the serious leg injury that threatened to bring his career to a premature end.

The veteran had initially been scheduled to return against Michael Chandler two years ago, only to withdraw after breaking the little toe on his left foot during training.

The decision attracted criticism from some figures within the sport, particularly because McGregor had previously competed while carrying injuries.

But the Dubliner remains adamant that withdrawing was the correct choice, arguing that the risks were too great after such a lengthy rehabilitation.

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“It’s why I postponed the fight just recently,” he said. “Injuries can happen, that’s fine.

“You need to manage them and be on the ball with them.

“There was a little lapse of concentration between myself, my training partner and my team.

“You know, whereas maybe before I would’ve made that walk and fought injured, not this time.

“There’s too much at stake. So I dialled it back.”

McGregor also insisted the setback did not diminish his confidence, maintaining that he was operating at an exceptionally high level before being forced to pull out.

“I was right there, sharp as ever,” he added.

“And I still am. I’m very sharp, the sharpest I’ve ever been.

“And that’s why it was a very tough pill to swallow.

“It wasn’t a decision I made lightly. But everything happens for a reason.”

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