Conor McGregor's Biggest Controversies: From UFC Chaos to Courtroom Drama

From violent UFC bus attacks to ongoing legal battles, McGregor's off-ring drama is putting his future in jeopardy

Conor McGregor's name is widely known in the world of combat sports, but while his performances in the UFC brought him global fame, his actions outside the octagon have repeatedly threatened to overshadow his achievements. From civil lawsuits to violent outbursts, these five major controversies have seriously damaged his public image and raised questions about his future in the sport.

Brooklyn Bus Attack Disrupted UFC Event and Injured Fighters

On 05 April 2018, McGregor launched a violent attack during UFC 223 media day in Brooklyn. He threw a dolly at a bus containing rival fighters, shattering a window and injuring Michael Chiesa and Ray Borg, who were forced to withdraw from their fights.

UFC had to cancel multiple bouts and issue refunds.
McGregor was arrested, fined, and sentenced to five days of community service and anger management classes.
Dana White, UFC President, called the incident 'criminal and indefensible'.

According to AP News, the event forced UFC to increase venue security and reconsider fighter access policies.

Dana White says Conor McGregor is going to jail after his violent bus attack The 434 Club

Civil Lawsuit Filed After Alleged NBA Finals Assault

In January 2025, a woman filed a civil lawsuit against McGregor, alleging he sexually assaulted her during Game 4 of the 2023 NBA Finals in Miami on 09 June 2023. The incident reportedly occurred inside a VIP suite at Kaseya Centre.

Per the New York Post, the woman claimed McGregor forced her into a private bathroom and assaulted her without consent. The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan, is still ongoing.

No criminal charges have been laid.
The plaintiff is seeking undisclosed financial damages.
McGregor's legal team denies the allegation.

£3.8 Million Lawsuit Over Broadcast Interference

In a separate case filed that same week, streaming company Heat LLC accused McGregor of interfering with their NBA Finals pay-per-view broadcast, causing service outages and financial losses.

According to legal filings, the company suffered over £3.8 million in damages, claiming McGregor breached their broadcast agreement and damaged their credibility with consumers.

The suit is currently before the New York Supreme Court.
McGregor's team rejects the claim.
Analysts suggest it could impact future commercial partnerships.

Civil Case: McGregor Found Liable for Sexual Assault by Nikita Hand

In November 2024, Conor McGregor was found liable for sexually assaulting Nikita Hand in a Dublin hotel in December 2018. The civil case was heard in Ireland, where a jury ruled in favour of Hand.

The court awarded Hand nearly €250,000 (£212,000) in damages.
McGregor has denied the allegations, maintaining the encounter was consensual.
He has announced plans to appeal the verdict.
The case does not involve any physical altercation at a private event or a UK court.

This ruling marks one of the most serious legal decisions against McGregor and continues to impact his public image and career.

Assault in Dublin Pub Caught on Camera

In August 2019, CCTV footage surfaced showing McGregor punching a 50-year-old man in a Dublin pub after the man declined a drink offered by him. The incident caused widespread backlash.

McGregor was fined €1,000 (£850).
The victim did not pursue civil charges.
McGregor publicly admitted fault, stating: 'I was in the wrong and I need to learn from it'.

The video was viewed millions of times, raising further concerns about McGregor's temper and public conduct.

A Legacy Under Threat

McGregor has reportedly earned over £150 million ($192 million) from fights, endorsements, and business ventures. Yet his growing legal issues threaten not only his brand but also his eligibility to fight.