Conor McGregor, once the UFC’s biggest star, is back in the headlines for controversy.
On July 14, 2025, Conor McGregor’s 37th birthday was marred by accusations from rapper Azealia Banks, who claimed the UFC star sent her unsolicited explicit photos via Instagram. Banks shared screenshots of the alleged messages, including nude images, and a threat from McGregor stating:
“Don’t be a rat cos all rats get caught.” She responded publicly, writing, “Like how are you really going to sexually harrass me with the potato farmer d*** then threaten me not to tell???? Honey…… ain’t u trying to be the president of Ireland what is it giving fam? Use some f****** sunscreen d***.”
Banks noted she never accepted his message request, and McGregor later deleted the images and unfollowed her.
Like how are you really going to sexually harrass me with the potato farmer dick then threaten me not to tell????
Honey…… ain’t u trying to be the president of Ireland what is it giving fam?
Use some fucking sunscreen damn
— Azealia Banks (@azealiaslacewig) July 14, 2025
The motherfucker woke up early LOL. pic.twitter.com/xRS4rUxMvi
— Azealia Banks (@azealiaslacewig) July 14, 2025
McGregor’s History of Controversies
McGregor’s off-cage issues are well-documented. In 2018, he was arrested in Brooklyn for throwing a dolly at a UFC bus, injuring fighters. In 2019, he faced charges for punching a man in a Dublin pub and settled a separate assault case out of court. In 2023, a woman accused him of sexual assault at an NBA Finals game in Miami, but the Florida State Attorney’s Office declined to press criminal charges due to insufficient evidence, per ESPN. The case proceeded to civil court. In November 2024, an Irish civil jury found McGregor liable for a 2018 rape in a Dublin hotel, ordering him to pay nearly 200,000 euros. He’s appealing, claiming the encounter was consensual.
In late 2024, McGregor was photographed kissing a woman on a Florida beach, prompting cheating rumors amid his engagement to Dee Devlin. Devlin has not commented on the Banks allegations.
Banks’ accusations, posted on her public Instagram, allege harassment and include explicit images, one reportedly showing McGregor lifting weights in a compromising manner. She has not indicated plans to pursue legal action. McGregor and his team have not issued a public response. Banks, known for her 2011 hit “212,” also mocked McGregor’s appearance and rumored political ambitions in Ireland.
McGregor’s UFC return remains unconfirmed. He hasn’t fought since fracturing his leg against Dustin Poirier in July 2021. A scheduled bout with Michael Chandler in 2023 was delayed due to injuries. Recent discussions,, suggest interest in a 2026 White House UFC event, though no contracts are signed. With a 22-6 record and former titles in featherweight and lightweight, McGregor is a top draw, but recurring controversies could jeopardize his comeback plans.
This latest incident adds to McGregor’s challenges outside the octagon. As he navigates potential legal fallout and plans his return, his ability to refocus on fighting will be critical to maintaining his status in MMA.
