A fighter booked for UFC 329 has reacted to his opponent falling off the card built around Conor McGregor's return, describing himself as having dodged a bullet. The comment signals mixed emotions surrounding the reshuffling of the high-profile event.
A fighter scheduled to compete at UFC 329 has publicly expressed relief after his opponent was removed from the July 11 card built around Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return, describing the development as dodging a bullet.
The unnamed fighter's candid reaction highlights the turbulent behind-the-scenes reshuffling that has accompanied one of the most scrutinized events in recent UFC history. His comments suggest the bout presented challenges he is now glad to have avoided, though the circumstances surrounding his opponent's withdrawal have not been detailed.
The centerpiece of UFC 329 remains McGregor, the 37-year-old Irish star fighting out of SBG Ireland. The Notorious carries a professional record of 22-6 and competes as a southpaw standing five-foot-nine with a 74-inch reach. His offensive output has long made him one of the sport's most compelling attractions, as he lands 5.32 significant strikes per minute at 49 percent accuracy. His return adds enormous commercial weight to the card, meaning every supporting bout carries heightened scrutiny and pressure.
Why it matters
- McGregor's involvement elevates the profile of every fight on the card, intensifying pressure on all competitors
- The reshuffling of bouts signals logistical difficulties in building out the supporting card around such a marquee main event
- A fighter openly expressing relief at losing an opponent reflects the unusual psychological dynamics surrounding high-profile UFC events
- Further changes to the card ahead of the July 11 date remain possible as the promotion works to solidify the lineup
Saturday, July 11, 2026
