Fight odds: Conor McGregor’s UFC comeback failed; now a familiar rival could await

Conor McGregor's UFC comeback has stalled after he suffered a knee injury during his rematch with Max Holloway at UFC 329, resulting in a loss. With McGregor's return halted, speculation about his next opponent has already intensified—and his last bout under his current contract is expected to be against a familiar name.

Bettors and oddsmakers have begun weighing potential next opponents. Michael Chandler has emerged as the betting favorite at 2/1 odds to face McGregor next. The matchup between the two former opposing coaches on "The Ultimate Fighter" has been discussed for years but was originally scheduled for 2024 before McGregor withdrew due to injury.

A trilogy fight with Holloway sits second at 3/1 odds. With their head-to-head record now even at 1-1, Holloway has publicly campaigned for a rubber match to settle their rivalry, particularly following McGregor's injury in their recent encounter.

Nate Diaz, despite being off the UFC roster, is listed at 5/1 odds for a potential trilogy. Diaz holds a 1-1 record with McGregor and would require a new UFC deal to fight again. Other contenders include Jorge Masvidal (7/1), Justin Gaethje (8/1), Paddy Pimblett (10/1), and Dustin Poirier (12/1). Both Masvidal and Poirier are retired but have indicated interest in possible returns. Former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov carries the longest odds at 20/1, reflecting the slim likelihood of a matchup between the two rivals.