This Saturday, UFC megastar Conor McGregor took a break from his usual routine and ventured into soccer during his appearance at the United Churches Football League (UCFL) in Dublin. Representing his pub’s football team, Black Forge FC, the Irishman donned the number 11 jersey and squared off against Harding FC. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but it wasn’t ‘Mystic Mac’s’ performance or the final score that captured the most attention.

Instead, a viral clip surfaced, showcasing Conor McGregor’s unorthodox approach on the field, left fans stunned. The footage showed the Irishman grabbing opponents’ shirts, pulling them down to seize possession, and even kicking players, causing controversy and unsettling viewers. As a result, the incident quickly sparked widespread attention.

In response, the MMA world quickly chimed in, with ‘Big’ John McCarthy’s ‘Weighing In’ podcast bringing up the viral incident. Co-host Josh Thomson had some fun with Conor McGregor’s soccer performance, dubbing McGregor’s kick a “rub-kick.” Thomson joked, “He was throwing kicks to the ball that weren’t even close to his foot. He was kicking people in the body. He was slide-tackling when the ball was 50/50. Like, what are you doing? I mean, good thing he fights better than he plays soccer. It was hilarious to watch.”

This appearance marks McGregor’s first involvement in a sports-related event in recent months. While his return came through a lighthearted local soccer match, fans welcomed it as a refreshing change, appreciating ‘The Notorious’ stepping outside his usual image, dominated by wild parties.

However, the lingering question remains: when will the Irishman make his much-anticipated return to the Octagon? And why did he decide to venture into soccer at this moment?

Conor McGregor hints at his next ‘big’ business venture

It has been nearly four years since Conor McGregor last stepped into the Octagon, with his most recent appearance ending in a brutal ankle injury that left him sidelined. Despite the setback, McGregor’s ambition to return remains undeterred. While issues with anti-doping protocols and a focus on his business ventures have delayed his comeback, he has used this time to expand his already thriving empire.

As rumors of a return—potentially in the boxing ring—circulate, McGregor has once again made headlines, this time for expressing interest in purchasing a football club. The buzz followed Elon Musk’s widely publicized intention to acquire the Liverpool Football Club. The Irishman ignited chatter in the MMA and football communities by posting his ambitions on X, though he quickly deleted the message.

In his post, the Irishman shared a photo of himself holding the FAI Cup trophy, a prize won by Drogheda United, where his cousin Warren Davis played and contributed to their victory last November. Posing with the trophy at a pub, ‘The Notorious’ cheekily captioned the photo: “How much is it to buy a League of Ireland team? I might buy two.”

The post sparked widespread discussion, but Drogheda United was quick to clarify that no official talks had occurred regarding a potential sale. This incident adds to a series of legal and personal woes surrounding McGregor, who has faced increasing criticism over the past year. What’s your take on Conor McGregor’s interest in soccer?

With his attention divided between side ventures and ongoing controversies, do you think he can successfully return to the Octagon? Share your thoughts below!