Name: Conor Anthony McGregor

 Nickname: The Notorious

 Weight Class: Lightweight

 Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)

 Reach: 74 in (188 cm)

 Record: 22-6 (19 wins by KO/TKO, one win by submission)

 Former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion

Conor McGregor’s journey from the streets of Dublin to becoming a global MMA sensation is legendary.

Let’s delve into the life and career of “The Notorious.”

Biography

Born in Dublin, Ireland, on July 14, 1988, McGregor’s combat journey began in boxing at age 12 before transitioning to mixed martial arts. His professional MMA debut in 2008 marked the inception of a remarkable rise through Europe’s MMA ranks.

In 2013, the UFC beckoned, and McGregor answered the call. His UFC debut in April 2013 was spectacular, igniting a five-fight winning streak. The pinnacle came in December 2015 when he dethroned José Aldo in just 13 seconds, claiming the UFC Featherweight Championship.

But McGregor didn’t stop there. In November 2016, he etched his name as the first fighter to simultaneously hold two UFC titles, adding the UFC Lightweight Championship to his collection by defeating Eddie Alvarez.

Fighting Style

McGregor’s arsenal is defined by his potent left hand, which has sent many opponents onto the canvas. He’s known for his ability to finish fights quickly, often with striking combinations that leave fans in awe. 

While he possesses grappling skills, McGregor prefers to keep the battle standing. Confidence oozes from him inside and outside the Octagon, where he’s never shy to engage in pre-fight verbal warfare.

Personality and Lifestyle

McGregor’s persona is as polarizing as it is captivating. He’s renowned for his bold personality and willingness to engage in verbal jousts with opponents and rivals. His larger-than-life character adds to the spectacle of his fights, making him a compelling figure in and out of the Octagon.

credit; thenotorious instagram

Outside the Octagon, McGregor lives luxuriously, with opulent cars, high-end fashion, and charisma that transcends his fights. His business brilliance shines through in launching Proper No. Twelve Whiskey is a successful venture diversifying his income and securing a prosperous post-fighting future.

Conclusion

Conor McGregor’s legacy is a tapestry of skill, charisma, and controversy. He’s one of the most popular and successful MMA fighters globally, captivating fans with his striking brilliance and entertainment value. 

McGregor’s journey from Dublin streets to global fame is a testament to his determination and unwavering self-belief. Whether stepping into the cage or commanding the microphone, “The Notorious” leaves an indelible mark on mixed martial arts.

The Root of Legends

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has evolved into a global phenomenon, captivating millions of fans with its thrilling fights and diverse techniques. While MMA is practiced worldwide, many organizations are responsible for its prominence, and each offers a unique blend of talent, excitement, and global appeal.

1. Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)

The UFC reigns supreme as the largest and most iconic MMA organization globally. Established in 1993, it has pioneered the sport’s growth and boasts a roster of the world’s best fighters. 

The UFC’s pay-per-view events and television broadcasts have made it a household name, attracting millions of fans worldwide. Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya, Jon Jones, and Amanda Nunes are a few of the prominent UFC stars.

2. Bellator MMA

Bellator MMA, founded in 2008, is the second-largest organization known for its thrilling matchups and tournaments. It offers a platform for fighters to make their mark on the sport and a better pay structure for fighters than the UFC. Patricio Freire, Ryan Bader, Patricio Pitbull, and Michael Page are from Bellator MMA.

3. ONE Championship

ONE Championship, established in 2011, is Asia’s premier MMA organization. It has rapidly gained global popularity, featuring a roaster of talents from across Asia. Aung La Nsang, Brandon Vera, and Christian Lee are two Star Fighters from the Asian group.

4. RIZIN Fighting Federation (RIZIN FF)

Rizin FF, founded in 2015, has made a name for itself by blending MMA with elements of Japanese martial arts. It quickly gained a following in Japan and beyond. Prominent fighters from the Rizin Fighting Federation include Tenshin Nasukawa, Seo Hee Ham, Ayaka Hamasaki, and Kyoji Horiguchi. 

5. Professional Fighters League (PFL)

The PFL features a unique format, with regular-season fights leading to playoffs and championships. It’s gaining recognition for its exciting competition. Notable fighters from the PFL include Kayla Harrison and Ray Cooper III.

Other MMA Organizations

• Legacy Fighting Alliance

• M-1 Global

• Pancrase

• Invicta Fight Championship (IFC)

Conclusion 

Many distinctive organizations enrich MMA’s landscape. The UFC’s star-studded roster and grand events dazzle, while Bellator MMA’s unique tournaments and focus on emerging talents differentiate it. Each promotion has a unique selling point that sets it apart from the rest. 

MMA’s prominence owes much to these organizations. Each offers a unique mix of talent and innovation, promising a future filled with excitement and unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.

 It’s April 9, 2005, and the first season of The Ultimate Fighter is culminating in a showdown that will become a legendary fight and redefine and refine the perception of MMA as a sport of grit and entertainment. It happened during the fourth year of Dana White’s presidency at UFC.

Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar step into the octagon at The Ultimate Fighter 1 Finale for a battle that will become legendary. Over 18000 readers of MMAWeekly voted the bout as the fight of the year, and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter honored it as the 2005 Shoot Match of the Year.

The Ultimate War between Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar

Griffin vs. Bonnar was not just a fight; it was a clash of wills, a test of endurance, and a spectacle that left fans on the edge of their seats. The main event of that historic night went the distance – three brutal rounds that were unforgettable in UFC history.

Both warriors were barely recognizable as the final bell rang, their faces battered and bloodied. Yet neither would yield. Griffin ultimately won unanimously, but the battle transcended the win-loss column.

A Turning Point for MMA

This bout marked a pivotal moment for the UFC. It showcased that MMA was more than a brutal spectacle – it was a legitimate sport demanding skill, heart, and determination. Dana White UFC president, recognized their courage, awarding both fighters six-figure contracts. Griffin vs. Bonnar propelled the sport forward, revealing its potential to captivate a global audience. It catapulted both fighters’ careers, making them household names and fan favorites.

Conclusion 

Even today, the Griffin vs. Bonnar fight remains a topic of discussion among UFC fighters and fans worldwide. It serves as a reminder of MMA’s uniqueness, unpredictability, drama, and incredible athleticism. It also demonstrates that in MMA, any fighter, regardless of the odds, can emerge victorious on any night, as fortune favors the bold, and the bold are those who enter the ring.

Now we know how The Notorious got the Juice!

MMA is the electrifying combat sport that has captured millions’ hearts and produced some of the most exhilarating moments in sports history. One of the ways fans get a front-row seat to these adrenaline-pumping clashes is through Pay-Per-View (PPV) events. Before we dive into our topic for today, Let’s look at what PPV means and its importance to MMA.

What is PPV

PPV, or Pay-Per-View, is a system where viewers pay a fee to watch specific events, like MMA fights, on their TVs or devices. 

PPV (Pay-Per-View) plays a crucial role in MMA by generating revenue through viewer fees, incentivizing fighters with PPV bonuses, attracting elite talent, expanding the sport’s global audience, and creating anticipation and excitement for high-profile fights.

Here are the top 5 highest-grossing PPVs in MMA history.

1.  UFC 229: Khabib vs. McGregor – 2.4 Million Buys

At the zenith of MMA PPV glory stands UFC 229, where the indomitable Khabib Nurmagomedov faced off against the charismatic Irishman Conor McGregor. 

This epic clash was laden with bad blood, verbal jabs, and unparalleled anticipation. Khabib emerged victorious via submission in the fourth round, but the post-fight brawl etched this event into MMA lore.

2.  UFC 264: McGregor Vs. Poirier

UFC 264 has a PPV of about 1.8 million buys. The bout featured McGregor facing off with Poirier for the third time, which comes with high expectations. However, the fight turned ugly as McGregor suffered a severe leg injury, forcing an early end. 

McGregor must rebuild his career after a two-year hiatus due to the injury. The rivalry with Poirier remains intense, leaving the possibility of a fourth fight as both fighters near the end of their careers.

3.  UFC 202: Diaz vs. McGregor with 1.650 Million Buys

In the runner-up slot, we find Conor McGregor again, locked in a tumultuous rematch with Nate Diaz. Their initial encounter had ended in a shock submission win for Diaz, setting the stage for a dramatic sequel.

McGregor emerged triumphant, securing a close decision after five rounds of relentless back-and-forth action.

4.  UFC 257: Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier

UFC 257, headlined by Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier, smashed records with 1.6 million PPV buys in January 2021. McGregor, the Irish sensation, took on Poirier, seeking revenge. Poirier emerged victorious, avenging a previous loss, and his win boosted the event’s appeal. 

McGregor’s global star power and the absence of a live audience played pivotal roles in the high PPV numbers, making UFC 257 a landmark event in MMA history.

5.  UFC 246: McGregor vs. Cowboy – 1.35 Million Buys

McGregor’s return to the Octagon at UFC 246 catapulted this event to the third spot on our list. Facing against the venerable Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, McGregor wasted no time, securing a TKO victory in a blistering 40 seconds.

Conclusion 

These are the top 5 highest-grossing PPV events in MMA history. Now we know how Conor McGregor’s become the richest star in MMA. It’s essential to recognize that each event showcased the pinnacle of MMA talent and the unmatched excitement that has propelled this sport to global prominence.

Born on October 22, 1989, in Lagos, Nigeria, Israel Adesanya’s path to MMA greatness is a tale of diverse influences and a relentless pursuit of excellence. 

Background

Adesanya excelled in martial arts at a tender age and was even enrolled in a taekwondo club he attended after school. His mother withdrew him when he sustained an injury. At 12, he and his family relocated to New Zealand, where his remarkable journey began.

After the unfortunate incident that cut his taekwondo journey short, he had no interest in going further, but the persistent bullying he experienced during childhood and adolescence changed that. After graduating high school, Adesanya enrolled in college and took up kickboxing, much to his mother’s displeasure.

Two years later, the stylebender dropped out of school to pursue a career in kickboxing after being inspired by the Muay Thai film Ong-Bak movie. Izzy suffered persistent bullying in college, and this forced him to renew his interest in the art of combat. 

Fighting Style

Adesanya is a UFC fighter whose tactics defy convention. His arsenal includes an extraordinary blend of precision, agility, and creativity. With a reach that seems to stretch into eternity and masterful footwork, he excels at keeping opponents at a distance. 

His knack for countering attacks with devastating strikes has left many in awe. While he’s no slouch on the ground, Adesanya prefers to orchestrate his symphony of violence by standing up.

Notable Achievements

At 21, he began training in MMA in New Zealand. He found his future home in City Kickboxing while he was there. Adesanya debuted in pro kickboxing in 2010, following an amateur record of 32-0.

Adesanya joined the UFC in 2017, debuted in 2018 at UFC 221, and won by TKO. He began his career there by beating Rob Wilkinson, Marvin Vettori, Brad Tavares, Derek Brunson, and MMA idol Anderson Silva. In 219, Adesanya beat Kelvin Gastelum to win the interim UFC middleweight title. The pinnacle of his ascent came in 2019 when he dethroned Robert Whittaker to claim the UFC Middleweight Championship.

Since then, he’s defended his title three times, earning a place among the world’s top pound-for-pound fighters. He has an astounding record of winning 24 fights out of 27, losing just three fights.

Other Notable Achievements

 Adesanya made history as the first African-born UFC champion. While simultaneously holding the Glory Kickboxing Middleweight Championship, he etched his name in the annals of combat sports. His three consecutive successful title defenses in the UFC paralleled those of the legendary Jon Jones.

Beyond the cage, Adesanya is a multifaceted individual, excelling as a businessman with his clothing line and even venturing into the world of music.

Conclusion

Adesanya’s journey is a testament to the fusion of cultures and disciplines, resulting in a fighter who is both cerebral and ferocious. He’s not just a champion; he’s a role model and an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.

With each fight, he adds a new chapter to his legacy, and the world can’t wait to see what the Stylebender has in store for the future.

Michael Bisping, the former UFC middleweight champion and current analyst, didn’t hold back his frustration over the judging in the main event of Noche UFC 227. In this headlining bout, Alexa Grasso retained her UFC flyweight title in a polarizing split draw against Valentina Shevchenko.

Moments after the final bell, Bisping vented his displeasure on Twitter. He declared, “Shevchenko won the fifth,” emphasizing her dominance during most of the round. Despite a momentary mount by Grasso, Bisping firmly believed that Shevchenko deserved the nod in round five. Expanding on his thoughts in a follow-up YouTube video, Bisping dissected the fight’s dynamics. He argued that Shevchenko had landed more significant strikes and controlled the center of the cage for the majority of the fifth round despite the brief mounting by Grasso.

Valentina Shevchenko vs. Alexa Grasso at UFC 227

“Shevchenko was outworking her,” Bisping contended. “She was landing more strikes, controlling the center, and racking the points. Then, she got caught in a mount. However, she escaped swiftly, took no damage, and didn’t lose ground control.”

Bisping didn’t stop there; he also criticized Judge Mike Bell‘s decision to award Grasso a 10-8 score in the fifth round. Traditionally, a 10-8 score signifies complete domination by one fighter, which, according to Bisping, was not the case in this round. I can’t fathom giving Grasso a 10-8 in that round,” Bisping expressed. She didn’t do enough to secure a two or three-point win in that round. She won it, but it wasn’t a landslide. Bisping’s critique of the judging in Grasso vs. Shevchenko resonated with fighters and fans on social media. Many believed Shevchenko dominated the fifth round, rendering the split-draw verdict contentious.

Despite the controversial decision, Grasso and Shevchenko showcased their exceptional skills, making it an exhilarating match. Nonetheless, the dispute over the judging marred an otherwise fantastic fight. It’s essential to remember that MMA judging is subjective, and disagreements over fight outcomes are par for the course. However, in this instance, the consensus leans heavily toward Shevchenko deserving the win.

Robert Whittaker has called it “silly” if Israel Adesanya gets an immediate rematch with Sean Strickland after losing to him at UFC 293. The former middleweight champion doesn’t think Adesanya deserves an immediate rematch, as he believes that Strickland should first defend his title against another contender.

Whittaker’s comments come after Adesanya lost to Strickland via unanimous decision in a stunning upset at UFC 293. It was Adesanya’s first loss since 2019, and it snapped his 22-fight unbeaten streak. Adesanya has since called for an immediate rematch with Strickland, but Whittaker believes that Strickland should first defend his title against another contender.

The No. 1 midweight division contender.

“I think it’s silly,” Whittaker said of Adesanya getting an immediate rematch. “I think Strickland should defend his title against someone else first. He’s just won the title and should defend it against someone else first. That’s how it should be done. Whittaker also pointed out that Adesanya has already had two rematches in his career, both against Marvin Vettori. Adesanya defeated Vettori in their first fight at UFC 243, but Vettori avenged that loss at UFC 263. Adesanya then defeated Vettori again at UFC 276.

“I don’t think Adesanya deserves an immediate rematch,” Whittaker said. “He’s had two rematches already in his career. He’s had two cracks at Marvin Vettori. I don’t think he deserves an immediate rematch. It remains to be seen what the UFC will do. They could grant Adesanya’s wish and give him an immediate rematch, or they could make Strickland defend his title against another contender first. Only time will tell what the UFC will decide.

In the meantime, Whittaker is waiting in the wings. He is the No. 1 midweight division contender and is eager to get his shot at the title. If Strickland does defend his title against another contender first, Whittaker will be the next in line to challenge for the belt.

Result: Split Draw (48-47 Grasso, 49-48 Shevchenko, 48-48)

The Ultimate Showdown Unfolds:

Las Vegas, known for its high-stakes showdowns, witnessed an electrifying battle as Alexa Grasso defended her UFC Women’s Flyweight Championship against the fierce challenger, Valentina Shevchenko. The T-Mobile Arena crackled with anticipation, and this rematch did not disappoint.

Grasso unleashed her fury from the first bell from the first bell, pressing Shevchenko against the cage and launching a barrage of powerful strikes. It was a relentless assault, but the former champ, Shevchenko, displayed nerves of steel as she weathered the storm. Shevchenko soon employed her footwork and striking prowess to land calculated counter-shots.

The momentum swayed back and forth as the fight progressed into the second round. Shevchenko’s kicks and jabs found their mark while Grasso continued her unyielding assault with thunderous punches. The Octagon became a battleground of titans, with both fighters seizing moments of control but neither securing a decisive upper hand.

Round three mirrored the second. Shevchenko’s precision and technique gave her the edge, but Grasso’s power punches kept her in contention. The battle raged on, a contest of skill and will.

Valentina Shevchenko vs. Alexa Grasso at UFC 295

In the fourth round, Grasso returned to life, unleashing her aggression again. She managed to take Shevchenko down and dominate on the canvas for a significant portion of the game. When we thought Shevchenko was down, she summoned her resilience, escaped Grasso’s grasp, and rose to her feet. In the final minute, Grasso still managed to land some ferocious punches in a brutal clinch exchange.

The fifth round was a nail-biter. Both fighters refused to back down, landing significant strikes without gaining a clear advantage. The final horn sounded, and the tension in the arena was palpable.

In an ending worthy of this epic clash, the judges delivered a verdict that left the crowd in awe—a split draw. Grasso retained her title, as champions can only be dethroned by knockout, submission, or unanimous decision.

Fight Night Fireworks

This battle was a masterpiece of combat sports. Grasso and Shevchenko, two phenomenal fighters, spectacularly showcased their talents. Grasso’s relentless aggression and power punches clashed with Shevchenko’s exquisite footwork and striking wizardry.

The split draw was a fitting outcome; both warriors had their moments, and choosing a clear winner was near impossible. What lies ahead for Grasso and Shevchenko remains a compelling mystery, and fight fans worldwide can’t wait to see what’s next in this thrilling saga. Stay tuned for more jaw-dropping UFC action!