Georges St-Pierre has weighed in on Conor McGregor's anticipated return to the octagon at UFC 329, outlining what the former two-division champion must be willing to do to make his comeback a success. St-Pierre's comments add high-profile perspective to the ongoing conversation surrounding McGregor's long-awaited return to MMA competition.
Georges St-Pierre has shared his perspective on what Conor McGregor needs to bring to his anticipated comeback at UFC 329, scheduled for July 11, outlining the mindset and approach the Irishman must adopt for a successful return to MMA competition.
St-Pierre, 45, is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history, finishing his career with a 26-2 record across the welterweight and middleweight divisions. The Canadian out of Tristar Gym was a dominant champion known for his elite wrestling, averaging 4.16 takedowns per 15 minutes over his career, combined with sharp striking at 53 percent accuracy. His voice carries significant weight whenever the topic of high-level comeback narratives arises.
McGregor, 37, enters UFC 329 carrying a 22-6 record and the weight of one of the sport's longest layoffs. The Dublin-born southpaw made history as a two-division champion and remains one of the most recognizable names in the sport. Fighting out of SBG Ireland, McGregor stands five-foot-nine with a 74-inch reach and has averaged 5.32 significant strikes landed per minute across his career, reflecting the aggressive output that defined his rise to the top.
Why it matters
- McGregor's return at UFC 329 is among the most anticipated events on the 2026 MMA calendar, making outside perspective from legends like St-Pierre relevant to the wider conversation
- St-Pierre's own experience navigating long absences and high expectations lends credibility to his assessment of what McGregor must do
- At 37, McGregor faces questions about ring rust and conditioning that St-Pierre's comments appear to directly address
- The outcome at UFC 329 could significantly reshape the lightweight division, where the top contenders include fourth-ranked Max Holloway
Saturday, July 11, 2026
