UFC legend Georges St-Pierre has offered his support for Conor McGregor after the Irishman’s long-awaited return to the Octagon ended in heartbreaking fashion.
McGregor’s comeback against Max Holloway at UFC 329 lasted just 69 seconds after he suffered a serious injury to his right knee while attempting a jumping kick. The highly anticipated rematch was stopped almost immediately, leaving McGregor’s return in disappointment after more than five years away from competition.
The injury was later confirmed to involve damage to McGregor’s ACL and meniscus. The former two-division UFC champion has since undergone successful surgery and begun his rehabilitation, with a potential return next summer reportedly in his sights.
St-Pierre admitted that watching McGregor’s comeback end so quickly was particularly difficult.
“I was heartbroken. I feel for Conor. He was trying to make a comeback and, man, he blew his ACL,” St-Pierre said. “I just think it’s sad. The circumstances were out of everyone’s control.”
McGregor has faced criticism from some fans who suggested that the financial rewards of his comeback may have been a major reason for returning after such a long absence. However, St-Pierre strongly rejected that idea.
The former UFC champion argued that McGregor would have much rather completed the fight than collect a payday without competing.
“Some people accused him of, ‘Oh, he took a paycheck,’ but I’m sure he would rather have had a real fight and not gotten paid than have this happen,” St-Pierre said.
McGregor has already made it clear that he intends to return to competition next summer despite the setback. His comeback could potentially be the final fight of his current UFC contract, making his eventual return an especially significant moment.
Although another lengthy rehabilitation now stands between McGregor and the Octagon, St-Pierre believes the Irish superstar will continue to attract huge attention whenever he eventually steps back into the cage.
