10 Things You Didn’t Know About Conor McGregor

7. Prior To Signing With The UFC, McGregor Was On Welfare

Conor McGregor
2017 Getty Images

These days, Conor McGregor is the wealthiest mixed martial artist in the world, whose opulent lifestyle is emphasized by the tailor-made suits he's become synonymous with.

However, prior to his UFC debut in April 2013, McGregor's financial situation was dire indeed. While his girlfriend Dee Devlin brought in some money as a waitress, McGregor was generating little to no income fighting and devoting the majority of his time to training.

As such, prior to setting foot in the Octagon for the first time, McGregor was a welfare recipient who reportedly received $235 check from the Irish Government, roughly a week before his UFC debut.

Fortunately, for McGregor, he would make short work of his very first UFC opponent, Marcus Brimage, who he knocked out in a little over a minute.

In just over four years' time, the groundbreaking fighter would go from receiving government aid to fighting the most famous boxer in the world (Floyd Mayweather) and making an estimated $85 million.

Contributor
Contributor

From 1999-2003 Jacques performed on the Florida independent pro wrestling circuit. He also has an amateur wrestling background and currently holds a certification in Krav Maga. Jacques graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2003, with a bachelor's degree in Political Science. He currently resides in Chicago, Illinois. Follow him on twitter @goodeals79.