Conor McGregor reveals the surprising story behind his ‘Notorious’ Nickname. Few nicknames in combat sports are as recognizable as “The Notorious,” but according to Conor McGregor, the origin of the moniker goes back long before he became a UFC superstar.
Speaking during a recent appearance on The Tonight Show. McGregor revealed that the nickname was rooted in his younger years when he frequently found himself in trouble. According to the former two-division UFC champion, his coach even had him saved in his phone as “Trouble” because of the mischief he was known for getting into. Over time, that label evolved into the nickname fans around the world know today.
“It actually came because I had a habit of getting into trouble when I was younger a little bit and my coach had me saved in the phone as ‘Trouble,’ actually,” McGregor said. “Now, I was only a young guy, but you know, I was just notorious for it. That’s it.”
The 37-year-old added that it is also a nod to hip-hop legend The Notorious B.I.G. McGregor has frequently used the artist’s 1997 hit song Hypnotize as part of his entrance music. “I like Biggie as well, I like the music, and that was the walkout song and it just kind of gelled together over the years and it became the Notorious,” McGregor said.
The nickname ultimately proved fitting for a fighter who would become one of the most talked-about figures in MMA history. McGregor’s combination of knockout power, confidence, and ability to generate headlines helped transform him from a prospect in Ireland into one of the biggest stars the sport has ever produced. He later became the first fighter in UFC history to hold two titles simultaneously, capturing both the featherweight and lightweight championships.
Over the years, the name “Notorious” has taken on additional meaning. While it originally stemmed from McGregor’s reputation as a troublemaker during his youth, it has also become synonymous with his larger-than-life personality, relentless self-belief, and ability to remain at the center of attention whether competing inside the Octagon or making headlines outside of it.
Now preparing for another UFC comeback, McGregor remains one of the most recognizable athletes in combat sports. And while fans may know him simply as “The Notorious,” the story behind the nickname serves as a reminder that it all started with a young fighter whose coach thought one word described him best: trouble.
