“I’m fascinated by movement, especially the movement of money,” said UFC megastar Conor McGregor, who has since expanded his reach beyond the Octagon with various business ventures. Black Forge Inn, Forged Irish Stout, Greenback Records, part ownership in BKFC! You name it and the Dubliner has done it! While McGregor credits his relentless drive for his success, he acknowledges that it would not have been possible without the support of UFC head honcho Dana White, who consistently created opportunities for him. McGregor capitalized on each one, skyrocketing to UFC superstardom, earning the nickname ‘Mystic Mac’ and banking on his charisma to fill his coffers.
In 2013, during a trip to Dublin to receive the ‘Gold Medal of Honor’ from Trinity College, White could not have predicted that the fighter he had heard about would rise to legendary status. At the time, White shared his thoughts with then-UFC CEO Lorenzo Fertitta, praising the young Irishman’s infectious energy and captivating personality. These qualities made an immediate impact, laying the groundwork for McGregor’s legendary career. Now, more than four years since his last fight in the Octagon, the Irishman continues to thrive financially, enjoying substantial wealth thanks to his smart investments.
His relentless drive once saying, “I’m going to the stars and then past them” led him to claim the top spot on Forbes’ Highest-Paid Athletes list in 2020 with $180 million, outshining even legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier this month, Dana White made his impact, gracing the cover of Forbes as a board member for two multi-billion-dollar companies. The Irishman, ever the supporter of his boss, took to Instagram to congratulate the bossman, writing, “@danawhite congrats on the @forbes cover. A man who helped me top the Forbes Highest Paid Athlete list!”
While Conor McGregor has his hands in various ventures, Dana White has remained focused on a select few, including the UFC and Meta. His unwavering commitment and tireless effort have been instrumental in his success, with Forbes valuing the UFC at $11.3 billion in 2024. Over the past three decades, the head honcho has turned the UFC from a struggling organization into a global powerhouse. Earlier this year, the CEO made headlines when Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta announced him as one of three new board members.
There has been speculation that White’s close relationship with President Donald Trump influenced Zuckerberg’s decision. But Trump and the tech mogul have not had a longstanding connection, while White has been a known ally of the 47th POTUS. Moreover, for Zuckerberg, White’s exceptional business acumen and his instrumental role in the UFC’s rise were likely the key factors. Now, with Conor McGregor aligning himself with Donald Trump as well, it remains to be seen if ‘The Notorious’s future will unfold in the realms of business or politics, much like White’s own journey.
What’s the latest update on Conor McGregor’s return?
Conor McGregor still has two fights remaining on his UFC contract, but despite frequent questions about his return, Dana White has shown frustration with the ongoing speculation. When asked about the Irishman’s comeback last month, the head honcho admitted, “Conor? I’m not sure when Conor will be back,” clearly exasperated by the repeated inquiries. While White initially suggested ‘The Notorious’ might return in late 2025, it appears the Irishman is now more focused on his other ventures.
In addition to his UFC involvement, the former double champ has become a partial owner of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). His role is more than just a co-owner; he acts as a key facilitator within the organization. At the BKFC press conference in Florence last month, the Irishman made a bold statement, saying, “If you think I am up here, giving these speeches and leading these men into battle, and I won’t step in there myself, think again. For sure, Conor McGregor will fight in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, mark my words.”
MMA: UFC 264-Weigh Ins, Jul 9, 2021, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Conor McGregor is greeted by UFC president Dana White during weigh-ins for UFC 264 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports, 09.07.2021 16:52:20, 16389698, NPStrans, T-Mobile Arena, UFC, Dana White, MMA, Conor McGregor PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xGaryxA.xVasquezx 16389698
According to former fighter Brendan Schaub, Dana White may have to approve McGregor’s request to fight in BKFC. Now, the question remains: what will the Irishman’s next move be? Will he return to the UFC, or will he shift his focus to BKFC? Do you believe Dana White will allow him to fight in another promotion, or will ‘The Notorious’s future lie elsewhere? Share your thoughts below.
The post Conor McGregor Hails Dana White’s Aid in Setting $180M Record To Beat Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo in 2020 appeared first on EssentiallySports.
