When Conor McGregor was a rising star in the world of MMA, it was extra special as not only did he come from nothing, but he had the full support from his girlfriend Dee Devlin.
At the time, Conor McGregor was living in a rented flat while receiving his €188 unemployment benefit. He would travel the UK fighting on MMA promotions like Cage Warriors and Dee Devlin believed in McGregor’s dream of one day making stardom.
Mcgregor has praised his partner for supporting him at a time when he wasn’t doing well. “My girlfriend has been there since the start. She has helped me throughout this career. If it wasn’t for her, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today. My girlfriend worked very hard throughout the years and stuck by me when I had essentially absolutely nothing.”

So, who is Dee Devlin?
Dee Devlin was born in Ireland and is best known as the long-time partner of MMA fighter Conor McGregor and the mother of their four children. She has also been involved in managing his career, handling his finances, and coordinating his schedule. The couple met in 2008 and have been together ever since, with Devlin playing a significant role in McGregor’s life and career.
Name | Dee Devlin |
Born | 9th August 1987 |
Height | 1.7m |
Partner | Conor McGregor |
However, since their humble beginnings and McGregor’s stardom, he has found himself in regular controversies and Dee remains loyal to him. But should she?
McGregor’s Controversial Moments
Spitting in Fan’s Face
One of McGregor’s lesser-known but widely criticized moments came when he allegedly spat in the face of a fan during a heated altercation. The incident, captured on video, sparked outrage across social media, reinforcing the growing narrative around his increasingly erratic public behavior. For someone in the public eye, especially a global sports figure, such actions do more than tarnish reputation—they signal an unchecked temper and disregard for those who support him.
Punching a Man in a Pub
Perhaps one of the most viral incidents involving McGregor was the 2019 CCTV footage showing him punching an elderly man in a Dublin pub. The man had reportedly refused a shot of McGregor’s Proper No. Twelve whiskey, prompting the unprovoked attack. While Conor later faced legal consequences and issued a public apology, the moment painted a troubling picture of someone struggling to manage fame, ego, and personal demons.
Punching a Man in a Club
Shortly after the pub incident, another altercation emerged—this time allegedly taking place at a nightclub. Reports claimed McGregor struck another individual at a party, adding to a growing list of violent run-ins. Although the legal outcomes of this particular incident remain unclear, the pattern of behavior—confrontational, impulsive, and aggressive—continued to fuel concerns about his temperament outside the Octagon.
Rape Charge
One of the most serious accusations against McGregor was a sexual assault investigation in Ireland that came to light in 2019. While he was never formally charged and consistently denied the allegations, the case drew international media attention and reignited conversations about athlete privilege, power dynamics, and accountability. Later, another allegation surfaced in 2023, related to an incident during an NBA Finals event, though McGregor again denied wrongdoing. These serious claims, even without convictions, cast a long shadow over his public image and have prompted difficult questions about justice and reputation in the world of sports.

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Why Does Dee Stay with McGregor?
Dee Devlin has been by McGregor’s side long before the fame, the fortune, and the fallouts. Their relationship dates back to his pre-UFC days, and by all accounts, she has remained a steady force in his life. For many, it’s hard to understand how someone can stay with a partner who’s repeatedly in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. But love, history, and loyalty often outweigh logic, especially in relationships built on years of shared dreams, struggles, and success. Leaving isn’t always easy—even when there’s every reason to walk away.
Wealth
Let’s be honest—wealth can change everything. McGregor is one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, and his empire spans whiskey brands, fitness programs, endorsements, and fight purses. For Dee, the lifestyle and security this brings may offer comfort that’s hard to give up. While love might be the foundation of their relationship, the financial aspect can add a layer of complexity when weighing the cost of leaving vs. staying.
Children
The couple shares three children, and like many mothers, Dee may prioritize her family’s stability over her own frustrations or concerns. For some, keeping the family unit together becomes the guiding principle—especially when co-parenting in the public eye could get messy. Even amid turmoil, the desire to raise children within a two-parent household can be a powerful motivator.
Final Thoughts
Conor McGregor’s controversies have ranged from reckless to criminal, yet his long-time partner Dee Devlin remains in his corner. While many may judge or question her decision, it’s important to recognize the emotional, financial, and familial factors at play. Love, loyalty, shared history, and a life built together aren’t easy to walk away from—especially when the world is watching. Whether one sees Dee’s commitment as strength or silence, her role in McGregor’s story is deeply layered, and likely far more personal than the headlines can capture.
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