Conor McGregor, renowned for his prowess in the octagon, has taken on a new role, but this time it’s not within the confines of a ring. The former UFC champion made his acting debut in the remake of the 1989 classic ‘Road House,’ and it seems his journey into Hollywood has been influenced by more than just the allure of the silver screen.
Meryl Streep’s Comments Affected Conor McGregor
The spark that ignited McGregor’s passion for his acting debut may surprise some. It harks back to the 2017 Golden Globes, where Meryl Streep, in her acceptance speech for the Cecile B. DeMille award, made remarks that didn’t sit well with McGregor and the martial arts community at large. Streep’s comments, seemingly dismissing mixed martial arts as not being a genuine art form, struck a chord with McGregor. Who sees fighting as a form of artistry in itself.
In a candid interview, McGregor revealed how Streep’s comments affected him, expressing his disbelief that someone of her stature would overlook the artistic merit of martial arts. For McGregor, the comments served as fuel, propelling him to prove himself in ‘Road House’ and represent his sport with pride and dedication.
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Joe Rogan Takes Aim at Meryl Streep
Conor McGregor wasn’t alone in his response to Streep’s remarks. Joe Rogan, a longstanding figure in the MMA community, also voiced his discontent. Known for his passion for the sport and his role in its promotion, Rogan didn’t mince words when addressing Streep’s apparent ignorance regarding MMA. In an episode of the JRE podcast, Rogan criticized Streep’s narrow view of art, asserting that martial arts, in all its forms, deserve recognition and respect.
UFC Continues to Flourish Despite Criticism
Despite the criticism from Streep and others, mixed martial arts continues to grow in popularity, with the UFC on the brink of its 300th pay-per-view event. Fighters from around the globe are drawn to the sport, each bringing their unique style and story to the octagon. Conor McGregor remains a central figure in this narrative. A testament to the enduring appeal and cultural significance of mixed martial arts.
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McGregor’s foray into acting may have been prompted by a desire to prove his detractors wrong, but it also highlights the deeper connection between martial arts and the arts at large. Streep’s comments may have sparked controversy. But they have also reignited a conversation about the nature of art and the diverse forms it can take. As McGregor continues to navigate the worlds of both fighting and film, his journey serves as a reminder of the power of passion and perseverance in the face of adversity.
