Conor McGregor record and biography: from Dublin dreamer to UFC global icon

Fact box

• Name: Conor Anthony McGregor
• Nickname: “The Notorious”
• Born: July 14, 1988 (Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland)
• Height: 175 cm (5’9″)
• Reach: 74 in (188 cm)
• Division: Featherweight / Lightweight / Welterweight
• Stance: Southpaw
• Pro MMA record: 22–6 (19 KOs, 1 submission, 2 decisions)
• Team: Straight Blast Gym (SBG) Ireland
• Championships: Former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion

Records & accolades

Conor McGregor made history in 2016 by becoming the first fighter to hold two UFC titles simultaneously — defeating Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205 to claim the lightweight belt while still holding the featherweight crown. His 13-second knockout of José Aldo at UFC 194 remains the fastest finish in UFC title fight history. McGregor’s bouts consistently broke pay-per-view and gate records, earning him recognition as the most commercially successful fighter in MMA history.

McGregor also became the first mixed martial artist to cross into mainstream boxing, facing Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2017 in one of the highest-grossing sporting events ever. His influence extended beyond competition — he redefined fighter branding, promotional language, and global audience reach.

Career timeline

• 2008: Makes professional MMA debut in Ireland, winning by TKO.
• 2013: Debuts in UFC with a knockout of Marcus Brimage, earning instant buzz.
• 2014–2015: Defeats Dustin Poirier, Dennis Siver, and Chad Mendes en route to title contention.
• 2015: Knocks out José Aldo in 13 seconds to become UFC Featherweight Champion.
• 2016: Beats Nate Diaz in a rematch at UFC 202, then defeats Eddie Alvarez to become double champion.
• 2017: Faces Floyd Mayweather in a boxing match, earning over $100 million.
• 2018: Returns to UFC, losing to Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 in a record-breaking PPV event.
• 2020: Knocks out Donald Cerrone in 40 seconds at UFC 246.
• 2021: Suffers leg injury vs. Dustin Poirier; career momentum stalls.

Fighting style & tactics

McGregor’s fighting style is rooted in precision, timing, and distance control. A lifelong student of movement, he integrates traditional martial arts with a fluid, counter-striking rhythm. His left hand remains one of the most feared weapons in MMA — a tool of precision rather than brute force. McGregor’s ability to read range and intercept opponents mid-attack led to multiple first-round finishes.

While known for striking, McGregor’s defensive grappling improved dramatically under coach John Kavanagh. Though criticized for stamina issues in longer fights, his first two rounds remain among the most dangerous in MMA history. His mental warfare, often executed before the cage door closes, is an equally powerful weapon — psychological disruption became part of his strategy.

Notable fights

• vs. José Aldo (UFC 194): 13-second knockout to capture the featherweight title; global breakout moment.
• vs. Nate Diaz II (UFC 202): Grueling five-round war showcasing heart, cardio, and tactical adjustments.
• vs. Eddie Alvarez (UFC 205): Flawless performance to become the first two-division champion.
• vs. Floyd Mayweather (Boxing, 2017): Showed competitive flair despite eventual TKO loss; record-breaking PPV event.
• vs. Donald Cerrone (UFC 246): Vintage comeback — 40-second head-kick finish demonstrating renewed explosiveness.

Legacy and influence

McGregor’s legacy stretches far beyond statistics. He single-handedly pushed MMA into mainstream sports conversation. His charisma, self-promotion, and calculated showmanship redefined how fighters market themselves. McGregor’s brash persona introduced entertainment-driven storytelling to fight promotion, inspiring a new era of verbal warfare and brand-building.

Yet beneath the bravado lies a disciplined martial artist who studied movement science, visualization, and mental focus long before they were popular training concepts. For Ireland, he became a national symbol; for the UFC, a business revolution. Even in defeat, McGregor’s fights continue to attract global audiences — proof that charisma, when backed by genuine skill, can change an entire industry.

FAQ

What is Conor McGregor’s official MMA record?

As of 2025, McGregor’s professional MMA record stands at 22 wins and 6 losses.

Who did Conor McGregor beat for his UFC titles?

He defeated José Aldo for the featherweight title and Eddie Alvarez for the lightweight title.

Will Conor McGregor return to the UFC?

As of late 2025, McGregor has teased a return but has not officially booked a fight since recovering from his leg injury.

What makes McGregor unique among UFC champions?

His ability to merge combat skill, marketing intelligence, and global branding is unmatched in MMA history.