Mixed martial arts superstar Conor McGregor was the sporting world’s highest-paid athlete in 2020, raking in around US$180 million with earnings boosted by commercial ventures, a Forbes report showed Wednesday.
The 32-year-old Irishman only fought once in 2020, earning around $22 million from his victory over Donald Cerrone in January.
The bulk of the former plumber’s pay packet — an estimated US$158 million — came via his successful business activities, which included the sale of his Proper Twelve whiskey brand.
McGregor was one of only four athletes to earn more than US$100 million in 2020, according to the Forbes annual list of sport’s highest earners.
Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi was second on the list with US$130 million in earnings, followed by Juventus idol Cristiano Ronaldo with US$120 million.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott was ranked fourth on the list with US$107.5 million.
Source-Forbes
