Conor McGregor, aged 36 as of 2025, is one of the most recognized names in combat sports, boasting a net worth of approximately $200 million. From humble beginnings in Crumlin, Ireland, to becoming a global icon, McGregor’s journey is filled with remarkable highs, staggering earnings, and a few hard-hitting setbacks.
How Did Conor McGregor’s Fighting Career Begin?
Conor’s passion for combat sports began early. At 12, he joined a boxing gym, honing skills that would later define his career. Initially working as a plumber’s apprentice at 17, McGregor’s life took a pivotal turn when he met future UFC fighter Tom Egan. The two trained together, laying the groundwork for McGregor’s switch to professional MMA.
McGregor made his amateur MMA debut in 2007 at 18, winning by TKO in the first round. Just a year later, he turned pro, entering the lightweight division with a victory over Gary Morris via second-round TKO. Despite a brief setback and consideration of a different career after his first professional loss, McGregor was convinced by his coach, John Kavanagh, to stay the course.
What Sparked McGregor’s UFC Rise?
In 2013, Dana White, president of the UFC, visited Dublin and was swarmed by locals urging him to sign McGregor. Impressed, White quickly inked a deal, and McGregor made his UFC debut on April 6, 2013, defeating Marcus Brimage by knockout just over a minute into the first round. A quick rise followed, but a torn ACL against Max Holloway later that year sidelined him for ten months.
McGregor’s return in 2014 was meteoric. Winning multiple bouts, he solidified himself as one of the UFC’s biggest stars. By 2015, he was headlining major events, with Fertitta locking him into a lucrative multi-fight contract.
How Much Has McGregor Earned From UFC Fights?
McGregor’s UFC paydays have been staggering. Between 2015 and 2016, documents from a 2023 antitrust lawsuit revealed McGregor earned $25 million. Here’s a snapshot of some of his major UFC earnings:
- UFC 189 (2015): $3.285 million for defeating Chad Mendes.
- UFC 194 (2015): $4.5 million for his iconic 13-second knockout of Jose Aldo.
- UFC 196 & 202 (2016): $5.6 million each for his two bouts against Nate Diaz.
- UFC 205 (2016): Approximately $7 million against Eddie Alvarez.
- UFC 229 (2018): An estimated $50 million payday for the clash with Khabib Nurmagomedov.
- UFC 246 (2020): A guaranteed $5 million, with bonuses possibly pushing his earnings to $80 million, following his fight against Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone.
- UFC 257 (2021): Another $5 million guaranteed, though he lost to Dustin Poirier.
Overall, McGregor’s career fight earnings, excluding endorsements, are estimated at around $235 million.
What About McGregor’s Boxing Payday Against Floyd Mayweather?
The 2017 boxing bout against Floyd Mayweather was historic. Conor earned a guaranteed $30 million, but after PPV shares and endorsements, his total swelled past $100 million. The fight generated 4.3 million PPV buys, making it one of the most-watched events ever.
While a rematch could have netted McGregor an additional $200-$300 million, the Mayweather fight alone helped cement his financial legacy.
How Did Proper No. Twelve Boost His Net Worth?
In 2018, McGregor co-founded Proper No. Twelve Irish whiskey. The brand rapidly gained traction, particularly in the U.S. and Ireland. Partnering with Proximo Spirits (owners of Jose Cuervo), McGregor and his partners initially sold 49% of the brand for $250 million.
In April 2021, McGregor sold his remaining stake, pushing the total value of the transaction to around $600 million. Conor reportedly pocketed roughly $200 million from this venture, significantly boosting his net worth.
What Was McGregor Paid for the “Road House” Reboot?
In March 2024, McGregor made his Hollywood debut alongside Jake Gyllenhaal in the reboot of “Road House.” His paycheck? Over $5.5 million, surpassing the record previously held by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for a first-time acting role.
What Makes McGregor a Unique Fighter?
McGregor is renowned for his precision striking, particularly his straight-arm left jab. His wide-stance and hybrid fighting style, blending boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Capoeira, and kickboxing, make him a versatile and unpredictable opponent.
His charisma, trash-talking, and unmatched promotional skills have made him a household name, transcending the MMA world.
What’s Next for Conor McGregor?
Despite setbacks, including his leg injury against Dustin Poirier in 2021, McGregor remains active. In 2023, he returned to coach “The Ultimate Fighter 31” opposite Michael Chandler, hinting at more bouts to come.
With his business ventures thriving and his star power intact, McGregor’s journey is far from over. Whether in the octagon, the boardroom, or on screen, “The Notorious” continues to dominate.
