On To the Next One: What’s next for Max Holloway, Conor McGregor, Paddy Pimblett after UFC 329?

Max Holloway secured a victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 329, but the rematch—a bout 13 years in the making—left more questions than answers for both fighters. McGregor's return to competition, his first fight since 2021, ended in disappointment when an apparent knee injury forced him to withdraw just 69 seconds into the contest. While Holloway got the win, he missed an opportunity to bounce back after his recent loss to Charles Oliveira. For McGregor, the early exit compounds an uncertain future: with one fight remaining on his UFC contract and a lengthy layoff potentially ahead, his next move remains unclear.

MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee examine the post-UFC 329 landscape in the latest episode of their "On To the Next One" podcast, discussing where Holloway and McGregor go from here—both fighters likely sidelined for the remainder of 2026. The analysis extends beyond the headline fighters to Paddy Pimblett, whose stunning submission victory over Benoit Saint Denis arguably stole the show, along with main-card performers Mario Bautista, Brandon Royval, and King Green. The hosts also explore Robert Whittaker's continuing light heavyweight campaign and how the UFC should develop heavyweight prospect Gable Steveson following his preliminary-round appearance. The episode concludes with listener matchmaking suggestions, offering fans a chance to weigh in on future pairings. Audio versions are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio.