Conor McGregor flaunts his record as Dana White leaves the door open after Paramount+ deal

The UFC just made a seismic move. Starting in 2026, all its events will shift to Paramount+ under a $7.7 billion agreement that shakes the foundations of the pay-per-view (PPV) model. For many, this signals the end of an era. For Conor McGregor, it’s the perfect moment to remind everyone who ruled that format like no other.

Conor McGregor, never one to miss a spotlight, posted an image on Instagram showcasing his PPV record along with a bold farewell: “Goodbye UFC PPV! Proud to be the King 👑.” And he’s got the numbers to back it up. McGregor headlined the five most purchased events in UFC history, including UFC 229 against Khabib Nurmagomedov (2.4 million buys) and UFC 202 versus Nate Diaz (1.6 million). According to Essentially Sports, McGregor racked up over 13 million PPV buys in total—putting him in a league of his own.

The door remains open

Even his 2017 boxing match against Floyd Mayweather, which drew 4.3 million buys, cemented Conor McGregor as a global draw. His ability to turn any fight into a worldwide spectacle is exactly what made McGregor the face of PPV, and his legacy seems nearly impossible to match.

 

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Just when it looked like the PPV format was heading for retirement, Dana White stepped in. As reported by outlets, the UFC president insisted that PPV “is not dead.” He hinted that special events under the PPV model could still happen. “Anything is possible,” he said—leaving the door open for future stars to chase Conor McGregor’s record.

This statement contrasts sharply with comments from TKO executives, who labeled PPV as “obsolete.” That contradiction adds a layer of uncertainty. Is PPV truly gone, or just on pause? What’s clear is that the new deal includes 43 UFC events per year—30 Fight Nights and 13 numbered cards—mostly streamed on Paramount+, with some simulcasts on CBS.

More accessibility

For UFC fans, this means greater accessibility. For fighters, it introduces a new dynamic in exposure. But for Conor McGregor, it marks the end of an era he dominated with charisma, drama, and millions of viewers. His reign as “King of PPV” goes beyond numbers—it’s part of the sport’s culture and emotional fabric.

For now, streaming takes the lead. But Dana White’s words keep the possibility of PPV alive. Maybe it’ll return just to crown a new king—if anyone dares to challenge Conor McGregor’s throne.