Conor McGregor’s journey from UFC superstar to convicted rapist has been a tumultuous one, marked by extraordinary highs and devastating lows. This article delves into the key events that shaped McGregor’s career, exploring his meteoric rise to fame and subsequent fall from grace.
The rise of the “Notorious” UFC champion
Conor McGregor burst onto the UFC scene in April 2013, quickly becoming a fan favorite with his brash personality and exceptional fighting skills. His journey from welfare recipient to UFC sensation was nothing short of remarkable. McGregor’s rapid ascent reached its pinnacle on November 12, 2016, when he made history at UFC 205.
At Madison Square Garden, McGregor achieved a feat never before accomplished in the UFC. He became the first fighter to simultaneously hold two championship belts by defeating Eddie Alvarez for the lightweight title. This victory, coupled with his existing featherweight championship, cemented McGregor’s status as a true UFC icon.
However, McGregor’s reign as a dual champion was short-lived. Just two weeks later, on November 26, 2016, the UFC stripped him of the featherweight title. This decision was part of a broader restructuring of the division, with Jose Aldo being promoted to undisputed champion.
McGregor’s stardom continued to grow beyond the octagon. In August 2017, he stepped into the boxing ring to face Floyd Mayweather in a highly publicized crossover match. Despite losing by TKO in the 10th round, McGregor’s performance was impressive, and the event was a massive financial success, reportedly earning him over $100 million.
Legal troubles and controversies
As McGregor’s fame grew, so did his legal troubles and controversial behavior. On April 5, 2018, he made headlines for all the wrong reasons when he attacked a fighter bus at UFC 223 media day. This incident, which involved throwing a dolly through a bus window, resulted in injuries to other fighters and led to McGregor’s arrest.
McGregor’s legal issues continued to mount. In March 2019, he was arrested in Miami Beach for smashing a fan’s phone. Later that year, a video surfaced showing McGregor punching an elderly man in a Dublin pub, an incident for which he later pleaded guilty to assault.
More serious allegations followed. In March 2019, reports emerged that McGregor was under investigation for sexual assault in Dublin. By October of the same year, a second sexual assault allegation surfaced. These incidents marked the beginning of a significant decline in public support for McGregor, particularly in his home country of Ireland.
Ups and downs in the octagon
Despite his legal troubles, McGregor continued to compete in the UFC, experiencing both triumphs and setbacks. Here’s a timeline of his notable fights :
- January 18, 2020 : McGregor makes a triumphant return, defeating Donald Cerrone in just 40 seconds at UFC 246.
- January 24, 2021 : Dustin Poirier knocks out McGregor in their rematch at UFC 257.
- July 10, 2021 : In their trilogy fight at UFC 264, McGregor suffers a gruesome leg break, losing to Poirier by TKO.
McGregor’s injuries and legal issues led to extended periods away from the sport. His attempts to return were often marred by controversy, including a dispute with USADA over drug testing requirements in October 2023.
| Date | Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 12, 2016 | UFC 205 vs. Eddie Alvarez | Win (Becomes dual champion) |
| Aug 26, 2017 | Boxing match vs. Floyd Mayweather | Loss (TKO) |
| Oct 6, 2018 | UFC 229 vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov | Loss (Submission) |
| Jan 18, 2020 | UFC 246 vs. Donald Cerrone | Win (TKO) |
| Jan 24, 2021 | UFC 257 vs. Dustin Poirier | Loss (TKO) |
| Jul 10, 2021 | UFC 264 vs. Dustin Poirier | Loss (TKO due to injury) |
The fall of an icon
The culmination of McGregor’s downfall came on November 22, 2024, when he was found liable in a civil trial for a sexual assault that occurred in December 2018. The jury awarded the victim, Nikita Hand, approximately $250,000 in damages. This verdict had immediate repercussions on McGregor’s career and business ventures.
Following the court decision, McGregor faced significant backlash :
- He was dropped as the spokesman for Proper Twelve whiskey
- Many of his business partnerships were terminated
- Public opinion, especially in Ireland, turned sharply against him
McGregor’s fall from grace was now complete. The fighter who once held two UFC championship belts simultaneously had become a convicted rapist in the eyes of the law and public opinion. His journey from welfare recipient to UFC superstar, and ultimately to a figure of controversy and legal troubles, serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of fame and the importance of personal conduct.
As McGregor vows to appeal the court’s decision, his future in and out of the octagon remains uncertain. The legacy of the “Notorious” Conor McGregor, once defined by his athletic achievements and charismatic personality, is now irrevocably tarnished by his actions outside the cage. His story serves as a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the world of professional sports and celebrity culture.
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