23 June,2026 01:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Jimmy Fallon and Connor McGregor. Pic via YouTube
Late-night host Jimmy Fallon is facing criticism online after welcoming mixed martial artist and former UFC champion Conor McGregor on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on June 17. While the interview focused on McGregor's anticipated UFC comeback, many social media users questioned why his legal controversies were not addressed during the conversation.
McGregor appeared on the show ahead of his planned return to the Octagon, and clips from the interview quickly spread across social media. However, the appearance sparked backlash, with several users accusing Fallon of giving the fighter a platform without acknowledging the civil case that made headlines.
Interestingly, Fallon did not post any promotional content about McGregor's appearance on his Instagram account before or after the episode aired. Instead, users took to the host's unrelated Instagram posts to express their frustration.
Many comments appeared under Fallon's birthday tribute to legendary musician Paul McCartney, with users questioning the decision to feature McGregor on the show.
Several social media users criticised Fallon for not bringing up the controversy during the interview. Some accused the host of helping rehabilitate McGregor's public image, while others argued that the legal case should have been addressed given its high-profile nature.
The criticism quickly gained traction online, with comments and reactions circulating across platforms.
The backlash stems from a November 2024 civil trial in which a jury found McGregor liable in a case brought by Nikita Hand over an incident that allegedly took place at a Dublin hotel in December 2018. During the proceedings, Hand accused the fighter of sexually assaulting her.
Court testimony included evidence from medical and forensic experts regarding injuries allegedly sustained by Hand.
The case drew widespread international attention and generated significant discussion online. McGregor has consistently denied the allegations.
Despite the criticism surrounding his television appearance, the fighter is currently focused on his return to mixed martial arts competition. McGregor recently announced plans to step back into the UFC octagon for the first time since 2021, with a bout against Max Holloway reportedly scheduled for UFC 329 on July 11.
As the controversy continues to generate debate online, Fallon's decision to host McGregor without addressing the legal case has become a talking point among viewers and social media users alike.
