Conor McGregor, also known as “The Notorious”, is one of the most charismatic and influential fighters in UFC history. With a deadly left hand, unmatched trash talk, and a fearless attitude, McGregor transcended MMA to become a global sports icon. But his journey from plumber apprentice in Dublin to two-division UFC champion is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life and Background
Born on July 14, 1988, in Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland, Conor Anthony McGregor started training in boxing at the age of 12. His background in boxing laid the foundation for his powerful striking and precise counters. Before joining MMA full-time, McGregor worked as a plumber apprentice — a job he eventually quit to follow his fighting dreams.
Featherweight and Lightweight Champion Title Reign
The meteoric rise continued when McGregor faced José Aldo for the UFC Featherweight Championship at UFC 194. In just 13 seconds, McGregor delivered a devastating KO — the fastest finish in UFC title fight history.
In 2016, McGregor made UFC history by defeating Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205 to become the first fighter to hold two UFC titles in different weight classes simultaneously — lightweight and featherweight.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Conor McGregor is known for:
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Southpaw stance and sniper-like precision
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Devastating left cross
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Elite fight IQ and timing
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Psychological warfare and pre-fight mental domination
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Clean, calculated striking and counter-punching
Beyond the Octagon: Boxing and Business
In 2017, McGregor fought boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. in one of the biggest PPV events in history. Though he lost by TKO in the 10th round, McGregor earned immense respect and a massive payday.
Outside the cage, McGregor launched his Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey, which became a commercial success. He also founded McGregor Sports & Entertainment, highlighting his entrepreneurial drive.
Conor McGregor Fight History (Professional MMA Record: 22–6)
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Conor McGregor’s most notable fights:
| Date | Opponent | Event | Result | Method | Round | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 10, 2021 | Dustin Poirier | UFC 264 | Loss | TKO (Doctor Stoppage – Leg Injury) | 1 | 5:00 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
| Jan 23, 2021 | Dustin Poirier | UFC 257 | Loss | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 2:32 | Abu Dhabi, UAE |
| Jan 18, 2020 | Donald Cerrone | UFC 246 | Win | TKO (Head Kick & Punches) | 1 | 0:40 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
| Oct 6, 2018 | Khabib Nurmagomedov | UFC 229 | Loss | Submission (Neck Crank) | 4 | 3:03 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
| Nov 12, 2016 | Eddie Alvarez | UFC 205 | Win | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 3:04 | New York, NY, USA |
| Mar 5, 2016 | Nate Diaz | UFC 196 | Loss | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 2 | 4:12 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
| Aug 20, 2016 | Nate Diaz | UFC 202 | Win | Decision (Majority) | 5 | 5:00 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
| Dec 12, 2015 | José Aldo | UFC 194 | Win | KO (Punch) | 1 | 0:13 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
| Jul 11, 2015 | Chad Mendes | UFC 189 | Win | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 4:57 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
| Jan 18, 2015 | Dennis Siver | UFC Fight Night 59 | Win | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 1:54 | Boston, MA, USA |
| Sep 27, 2014 | Dustin Poirier | UFC 178 | Win | TKO (Punches) | 1 | 1:46 | Las Vegas, NV, USA |
The Setbacks and Comebacks
Conor’s career has had its share of turbulence:
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Losses to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier exposed his vulnerabilities
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Legal Troubles and media controversies
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Broken Tibia in UFC 264 forced long-term recovery
Legacy and Impact on MMA
Conor McGregor’s influence on the UFC and MMA is undeniable. He:
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Revolutionized fighter promotion and branding
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Helped the UFC gain mainstream popularity
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Inspired a new generation of European fighters
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Set multiple PPV and attendance records
Even with losses and long layoffs, his star power remains unmatched.
What’s Next for Conor McGregor?
As of 2025, McGregor is rumored to return to the octagon in a blockbuster fight, possibly against Michael Chandler. Whether he returns as a contender or simply a showman, McGregor’s name guarantees excitement.
Quick Facts
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Nickname: The Notorious
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From: Dublin, Ireland
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Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
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Reach: 74 in (188 cm)
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MMA Record: 22 wins – 6 losses (as of 2025)
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Notable Wins: José Aldo, Nate Diaz, Eddie Alvarez, Donald Cerrone
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Business Ventures: Proper No. Twelve, McGregor FAST, August McGregor (fashion)
Final Thoughts
Conor McGregor is more than just a fighter — he’s a phenomenon. With a legacy that includes historic title wins, iconic knockouts, and a massive global fanbase, McGregor will forever be one of the most impactful figures in MMA.
Whether he fights again or not, “The Notorious” has already secured his place in combat sports history.
