Conor McGregor sparks concern among UFC fans after worrying footage emerges
Conor McGregor has been out of the UFC Octagon since his loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021, and fans are growing increasingly worried about his lifestyle in new footage
UFC fans have voiced concerns about Conor McGregor's lifestyle after a video of a night out in Dublin circulated on social media.
Despite being absent from MMA since his 2021 loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264, McGregor remains in the spotlight. Plans for a return last year were scrapped when an injury dashed hopes for a bout with former Bellator champion Michael Chandler.
Away from the Octagon, McGregor's recent trip to Washington made headlines as he spent time with President Donald Trump at the White House. In a surprising twist, following this high-profile encounter, McGregor voiced ambitions to pursue the Irish presidency.
Fans have been further worried about McGregor's chances of resuming his UFC career after watching clips from his St. Patrick's Day weekend celebrations. Uploaded on the 'NELK Boys' YouTube channel, the footage documents their jaunt to Ireland to celebrate the occasion and features a cameo from McGregor, who played the role of charismatic host at his 'Black Forge Inn' pub in Dublin.
The UFC star enthusiastically greeted them: "My hell, you lads are here early." Upon entering the pub, McGregor treated patrons to an impromptu performance of Robbie Williams' hit song Angels, followed by downing several of his signature Forged Irish Stouts.
He was then filmed instructing the American YouTubers on the art of pouring the perfect stout, and even allowing them to hold one of his coveted UFC titles. As the night drew to a close, McGregor and the Nelk Boys shared a heartfelt hug before the Irishman offered them a round of tequila rose shots.
While fans may find this carefree side of the former two-weight champion entertaining, others have expressed concern about his lifestyle outside the Octagon. One fan lamented: "Actually so sad to see Conor McGregor in this state."
A second one wrote: "I'm actually worried about him. A life of partying and drinking doesn't usually last very long." While a third commented: "Old Conor would hate this new Conor."
A fourth fan claimed: "He's not the same person anymore. Neither physically or personality-wise." A fifth added: "A far cry from the inspirational and focused individual we saw years ago. He's achieved great things but I don't see a person who is happy with his lot."
The future of McGregor's fighting career is uncertain with only two fights left on his UFC contract. He recently hinted at retirement when speaking at a BKFC event at the end of March.
"I've got two fights on the contract, I'm in negotiations," McGregor said. "Last week something happened to me, I went to the White House and my heart bleeds for my country right now.
"So there's a lot of stuff going on back home, I'm happy with what I've done. There's something else for me that's in my gut right now and that's kind of where I'm going.'"
However, he then suggested that becoming the President of Ireland could boost his fighting career. When asked if he could balance fighting and being president, McGregor enthusiastically responded: "F****** right I will, of course, are you crazy?
"That's part of why I want to do it! To be announced as the President of Ireland while having a fight? Imagine that. But for sure, hell yeah, hell yes."