Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has made a financial investment in bare-knuckle boxing company BKFC, joining its ownership group and gaining a significant stake that will allow him to influence major company decisions.
Conor McGregor’s not just a great promoter, he’s also a savvy investor. His recent stake in BKFC wasn’t a publicity stunt.
The ex-UFC champ’s investment in the bare-knuckle boxing outfit is more than just a financial move. He’s now part of an ownership group that includes social media giant Triller. Sure, McGregor’s name boosts BKFC’s profile, but it’s more than that, according to BKFC’s founder and president, David Feldman.
Feldman insists that McGregor’s role isn’t just about slapping his face on some posters. He’s got a real say in the company.
“I’ll let him disclose what he wants about his ownership percentage,” Feldman said on The MMA Hour. “But he’s got needle-moving equity. He’s got enough to make a big play here, and I think he will.”
McGregor’s voice will be heard. He’ll have opinions, ideas, and we’re looking forward to it all, says Feldman.
The idea of McGregor buying into BKFC started a year ago. He attended a card headlined by Mike Perry and ex-UFC champ Luke Rockhold. McGregor was loud in the crowd, even putting a BKFC title on his shoulder for a playful faceoff with Perry.
After that, McGregor sponsored BKFC through his Forged Irish Stout brand. Feldman kept in touch, and the deal was eventually brokered.
“We just started talking,” Feldman said. “One thing led to another, and now he’s a partner. We’re thrilled. It’s going to be an amazing partnership.”
McGregor’s currently training for his UFC 303 return on June 29. He’s fighting Michael Chandler, his first fight in nearly three years.
Feldman expects McGregor to support BKFC in various ways, like appearing at events or even hosting press conferences.
“I’ve put blood, sweat, and tears into this company,” Feldman said. “But if fans have to choose between me or Conor McGregor, they’ll choose McGregor every time.”
Feldman doesn’t see any conflict of interest with McGregor promoting another combat sports promotion while still fighting in UFC. McGregor had talks with UFC before going public with his BKFC stake.
Feldman’s excited about the future with McGregor. But could McGregor fight in bare-knuckle boxing one day?
“He loves the UFC,” Feldman said of McGregor. “He loves Dana White. He loves fighting for them. But he loves what we do too. He’s got two more UFC fights on his contract, so we’ll see what happens. But if the opportunity arises, I think he’d like it. But I’ll let him speak for himself.”