Conor McGregor is set to make a highly anticipated return to the octagon, facing Max Holloway at UFC 329 on Sunday, after a five-year absence. This comeback is bittersweet for fans, as it marks the return of one of the biggest stars in mixed martial arts history.

On one hand, McGregor's legacy as the UFC's first simultaneous two-weight world champion and his captivating personality have been pivotal in popularizing the sport. However, his career has been marred by numerous controversies, including:

• A civil jury appeal loss against a finding of sexual assault in a Dublin hotel.
• A failed presidential run and multiple missed drug tests.

At 37 years old, McGregor's fight against Holloway will complete his return from a severe leg injury sustained in a defeat by Dustin Poirier in 2021. The bout headlines UFC's flagship International Fight Week, highlighting McGregor's value to the promotion, yet critics question whether he still deserves the spotlight.

Since his injury, McGregor has remained in the headlines. In November 2024, a jury found him liable for sexually assaulting Nikita Hand, ordering him to pay £206,000 in damages. Following his civil jury appeal loss in July 2025, Hand announced further legal action against McGregor and others for alleged malicious court processes. McGregor maintains his innocence, stating, "I'm an innocent man and I'll stand for my innocence until the day I go out."

In addition to these legal troubles, McGregor accepted an 18-month ban for violating the UFC's anti-doping policy after missing three tests in 2024. Despite these setbacks, he has been tested more than any other fighter this year.

Public support for McGregor in Ireland appears to be waning, as political leaders recently remarked that he "does not speak for Ireland." In a recent news conference, he stated, "I'm not here to win anyone back, I'm here to represent my country." As he prepares for his return, the question remains: can McGregor reclaim his legacy amidst mounting controversies?