Public Backlash Over Late-Night Appearance
UFC fighter Conor McGregor is facing significant public and celebrity backlash following his recent appearance on NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The booking has drawn sharp criticism due to McGregor’s legal history, specifically his 2024 civil liability ruling in Dublin, where he was found responsible for sexual assault and ordered to pay $260,000 in damages.
Actress Christina Ricci was among the most vocal critics, utilizing her social media platform to condemn the decision to provide McGregor with a mainstream media stage. The incident has reignited debates regarding the ethics of booking figures with serious criminal or civil allegations, with critics arguing that such platforms serve to normalize or polish the reputations of individuals found liable for violent acts.
MLB Clears Surgeon Over McGregor Links
In a separate development, Major League Baseball (MLB) has officially closed its inquiry into Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the renowned surgeon who has treated numerous high-profile athletes, including McGregor. The investigation was triggered by a New York Times report suggesting ElAttrache had recommended a specialist who prescribed performance-enhancing drugs to McGregor during his recovery from a 2021 leg injury.
MLB confirmed that it conducted a thorough review, including direct interviews with Dr. ElAttrache. In a statement, the league noted that after examining relevant records and considering the physician’s history of cooperation with the Joint Drug Program, it found no concerns regarding his treatment of MLB players. Dr. ElAttrache, who serves as the head team physician for both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Rams, maintained that he followed all medical regulations and had no involvement in the prescription of banned substances.
UFC 329 Preparations Continue
As McGregor prepares for his highly anticipated return to the Octagon at UFC 329, the event card has experienced further instability. Following the announcement of his return, fighter Cody Durden reported that his scheduled opponent, Ode Osbourne, has withdrawn from their July 11 bout. The shuffling of the UFC 329 fight card underscores the logistical challenges currently facing the promotion as it markets McGregor’s return after a five-year hiatus.