Conor McGregor has spread some festive cheer this Christmas by gifting a massive €20,000 ($21,500) to his staff at The Black Forge Inn, his Dublin-based pub. The generous gesture came as his team celebrated the holiday season at a Christmas party over the weekend, sparking praise from pub manager Liam Flynn.

Flynn shared the heartwarming moment on social media, where he thanked McGregor on behalf of the entire staff. In a video posted online, Flynn can be heard saying, “As ya said boss, drinks all round, 20k. From everyone, thanks champ.” McGregor’s public show of generosity was appreciated by those working at his establishment, with the staff enjoying a memorable evening without having to worry about their drinks.

The Black Forge Inn, located in McGregor’s hometown of Crumlin, has become a focal point of his business ventures since he acquired the pub in 2020. Despite some of the controversies surrounding the UFC champion, including a recent legal setback, McGregor continues to maintain a strong presence in Dublin’s social and business scenes.

However, McGregor’s goodwill has come under scrutiny due to legal and commercial challenges. Last month, the UFC fighter was found liable for assaulting Nikita Hand at a Dublin hotel in 2018, with Hand awarded almost €250,000 in damages. The case, alongside McGregor’s often outspoken public persona, has led to calls for boycotts of his products and businesses.

Dublin West councillor Ruth Coppinger, who has been a vocal critic of McGregor, recently urged people to avoid supporting McGregor’s ventures. Coppinger’s call for a boycott has gained some traction, especially after major retailers like Tesco in both Ireland and the UK announced they would no longer sell McGregor-branded alcoholic beverages. Despite this, McGregor’s actions, such as his €20,000 Christmas giveaway, reflect a different side to the fighter, who has frequently been involved in charity and community projects.

Coppinger noted the “significant backlash” McGregor is facing, emphasizing that such reactions from retailers and sponsors are rare but impactful. She expressed her surprise at the level of commercial fallout McGregor has encountered, but also voiced hope that it would continue.

While McGregor’s business decisions and personal conduct have sparked controversy, his generosity this Christmas highlights his willingness to celebrate with and support those close to him, even amidst public scrutiny.

READ MORE: Analysing Jake Paul’s next opponent: Andrew Tate or Conor McGregor?