Ten years ago, Conor McGregor delivered one of the most unforgettable victories in MMA history.
Not even Jose Aldo’s previous opponents imagined anyone could stop the Brazilian legend without controlling him on the ground. McGregor shattered that expectation in just 13 seconds at UFC 194, ending one of the sport’s most iconic winning streaks. The Irish fighter comforted Aldo after the sudden and devastating loss, marking the end of an intense build-up that had captivated fans worldwide.
A rapid rise to superstardom
After claiming the featherweight title, McGregor did not wait long to celebrate his career-defining triumph. He turned his attention to a personal reward, selecting a lavish symbol of success. Shortly after UFC 194, the Nevada Athletic Commission released fighter salaries from the event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. McGregor topped the list as the highest earner, earning $500,000. This figure, however, did not include his sponsorship deals or pay-per-view revenue, which significantly boosted his total earnings.
Splurging on a Rolls-Royce
McGregor invested over half of his UFC 194 salary in a single purchase: a Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe. The luxury car cost between $438,000 and $480,000 at the time, reflecting the fighter’s skyrocketing fame. The extravagant purchase matched his growing status as an instant icon in the sport. In the following years, he expanded his collection with similar vehicles, demonstrating no hesitation in embracing luxury.
A second Rolls-Royce to match his legacy
Before UFC 205, McGregor received a second Rolls-Royce directly from the manufacturer. The all-black Ghost, valued at around $300,000, featured his nickname and portrait on the side. The gesture recognized his unprecedented impact on MMA and confirmed his place as one of the sport’s most marketable stars. By then, McGregor had already proven his ability to dominate in the Octagon and in the public eye.
