Los Angeles, August 11, 2025 – The atmosphere at this year’s ESPY Awards was electric, charged with anticipation and emotion. Thousands of fans, fellow athletes, and celebrities gathered at the Microsoft Theater to celebrate the pinnacle of sporting achievement. The night was poised to be a triumphant one for Conor McGregor, the iconic fighter whose name has become synonymous with resilience, charisma, and unrelenting ambition. And then, in a moment that will be etched into the annals of sports history, McGregor was awarded the coveted ESPY for Best Boxer—an accolade that cemented his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of his generation. Yet, the celebration was bittersweet, overshadowed by a tearful announcement from his wife, Dee Devlin, that left the world stunned: at the age of 37, Conor McGregor was unable to continue.
For those who have followed McGregor’s meteoric rise, this moment was both a culmination and a heart-wrenching turning point. Born in Dublin, Ireland, McGregor’s journey from a working-class neighborhood to global superstardom is the stuff of legend. He burst onto the scene in mixed martial arts (MMA) with a brash confidence and a devastating left hand, quickly becoming the UFC’s biggest star. His transition to professional boxing, most notably his 2017 mega-fight against Floyd Mayweather, showcased his audacity to compete against the best, regardless of the odds. Though he didn’t win that bout, his performance earned him respect and solidified his place in the boxing world. Since then, McGregor has continued to compete, defying critics and pushing his physical and mental limits.
The ESPY Award was a testament to his enduring impact on the sport. As his name was called, the crowd erupted in a standing ovation, chanting “Notorious!”—his infamous moniker. McGregor, dressed in a tailored suit that reflected his flamboyant style, took the stage with his trademark swagger. In his acceptance speech, he thanked his fans, his team, and above all, his family, particularly Dee Devlin, whom he credited as the backbone of his career. “Without Dee, there is no Conor McGregor,” he said, his voice steady but heavy with emotion. The audience roared in approval, unaware of the bombshell that was about to drop.
Moments after McGregor left the stage, Dee Devlin stepped up to the podium, her eyes glistening with tears. The room fell silent as she began to speak. “Conor has given everything to this sport, to his fans, and to us,” she said, her voice trembling. “But tonight, I have to share that at 37, he can no longer continue.” Gasps rippled through the crowd as she paused, struggling to compose herself. “His body has fought battles most could never imagine. The doctors have made it clear—his health must come first now.”
The announcement sent shockwaves through the sports world. Social media platforms, particularly X, exploded with reactions from fans, fighters, and analysts. Posts ranged from tributes to McGregor’s unparalleled career to expressions of heartbreak over the news. “Conor McGregor changed combat sports forever,” one user wrote. “He fought like a lion, and he’ll always be a legend.” Another added, “Dee’s words broke my heart. Wishing Conor strength in whatever comes next.”
McGregor’s career has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks. From becoming the first UFC fighter to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously to overcoming injuries and personal challenges, he has always embodied the spirit of a warrior. His larger-than-life personality—marked by sharp-witted trash talk and a flair for the dramatic—made him a polarizing yet magnetic figure. But behind the bravado was a man who poured his heart into every punch, every training session, and every moment in the spotlight.
Dee Devlin’s announcement did not specify the exact nature of McGregor’s condition, but sources close to the family suggest that years of grueling fights have taken a toll on his body. Speculation about chronic injuries, particularly from his 2021 leg break against Dustin Poirier, has dominated discussions on X. Regardless of the details, the consensus is clear: McGregor’s health must now take precedence.
As the news settles, the sports world is left to reflect on McGregor’s legacy. He redefined what it means to be a fighter, blending skill, showmanship, and unrelenting determination. His influence extends beyond the ring, inspiring countless athletes to dream big and defy expectations. While his fighting career may be over, McGregor’s story is far from finished. Known for his ventures in business, including his Proper No. Twelve whiskey brand, and his larger-than-life persona, he is likely to remain a force in the public eye.
For now, fans are left grappling with the end of an era. Conor McGregor, the “Notorious” one, may no longer step into the ring, but his impact will echo for generations. As Dee Devlin stood by his side, wiping away tears, she reminded the world of the man behind the myth—a husband, a father, and a fighter who gave everything. The ESPY Award was not just a trophy; it was a final salute to a career that changed the game forever.
