Conor McGregor‘s upcoming fight against Michael Chandler has already generated the biggest live gate in UFC history, with over $20 million in ticket sales six weeks ahead of the event.
Let’s get this straight. Conor McGregor’s drawing power? It’s undeniable. After a three-year hiatus, his return to the ring is making waves.
The proof? The live gate for his comeback fight. It’s a clear testament to his star power.
UFC St. Louis just wrapped up. And guess what Dana White, UFC CEO, had to say? McGregor’s upcoming bout against Michael Chandler on June 29? It’s already set a new record for the biggest live gate in UFC history. And we’re still six weeks out!
White was pretty candid with the press. “We’re already way over $20 million,” he said.
Now, here’s the kicker. UFC has never seen a $20 million live gate before. But McGregor? He’s been a key player in three of the top five selling events of all time.
Flashback to 2016. McGregor knocked out Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205 in New York. Became the first fighter to hold two UFC division titles simultaneously. That fight? Generated a $17.7 million live gate. Still holds the all-time record.
Next up? McGregor’s UFC 229 face-off with Khabib Nurmagomedov in Las Vegas. Pulled in a cool $17,188,895.
UFC 303? The promotion was banking on McGregor’s return. VIP ticket packages? More than $12,000.
Breaking the $20 million mark? Gives White a chance to gloat a bit. Especially to a former rival who once scoffed at UFC’s earnings compared to big boxing events.
Stephen Espinoza, ex-Showtime Sports head, was that rival. He’d brag about UFC never hitting a $20 million gate while he was promoting his third such event in 2023. The headliners? Canelo Alvarez and Jermell Charlo.
Espinoza and White? They’ve been at odds since co-promoting the McGregor-Mayweather boxing match in 2017. Never missed a chance to take a jab at each other.
Espinoza was pretty smug last September. “This event on Saturday night will generate a gate of over $20 million,” he said. “UFC has never done a gate of $20 million in its entire history. We’ve done it three times since April.”
White’s response to Espinoza’s gloating? He couldn’t care less. Then or now.
“Who gives a flying f*ck what Espinoza thinks, pardon my language,” White retorted. “Where is Espinoza? Who gives a shit?”