Full Breakdown
Conor McGregor Settles Lawsuit with Artem Lobov Over Proper No. 12 Profits
4/16/2026, 6:56:45 AM
Settlement Reached in High Court
Conor McGregor has settled a lawsuit with his former sparring partner Artem Lobov regarding profits from the sale of the whiskey brand Proper No. 12. The settlement was announced in Dublin’s High Court on Wednesday, just before the trial was set to begin. Lobov had claimed he was entitled to 5% of the proceeds from the sale based on a verbal agreement made in 2017, which McGregor denied.
Lobov initiated legal proceedings in November 2022, asserting that he played a significant role in the brand's creation and was promised a stake in the business. McGregor, however, contended that Lobov's involvement was limited and that no formal agreement existed. The dispute escalated as Lobov alleged he was "muscled out" of the business after Proper No. 12 became successful.
Financial Stakes and Background
Proper No. 12 was sold to Proximo Spirits in 2021 for approximately $600 million, with McGregor reportedly earning around $130 million from the deal. Following the sale, McGregor continued to promote the brand until Proximo severed ties with him after he was found liable for a civil assault case in 2018. This context added weight to Lobov's claims, as the lawsuit questioned the contributions made by both fighters to the brand's success.
Official Statements & Responses
During the court proceedings, McGregor's attorney, Mark Lynam, read a statement on behalf of McGregor, expressing satisfaction with the resolution and his eagerness to focus on training for an upcoming fight. McGregor stated, “I want to thank Artem for his hard work for my whiskey business.” Lobov, who was present in court, expressed his contentment with the outcome, saying he was "happy with the resolution."
Criticism & Opposition
While the settlement concluded the legal dispute, it did not address the underlying tensions between McGregor and Lobov. Critics of McGregor have pointed to the nature of the agreement and the circumstances surrounding the brand's success as indicative of broader issues in the MMA community regarding fairness and recognition among fighters.
What's Next
With the lawsuit settled, McGregor can now concentrate on his return to the UFC, which is anticipated to occur this summer. The resolution of this dispute allows both fighters to move forward, albeit with a history of conflict that may linger in their professional relationship.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I want to thank Artem for his hard work for my whiskey business.” — Conor McGregor
- “It said: "I’m satisfied that this matter has been resolved and I can focus on my training and this summer’s fight.” — Conor McGregor
- “happy with the resolution” — Artem Lobov
This settlement marks the end of a contentious chapter between McGregor and Lobov, highlighting the complexities of partnerships in the lucrative world of sports branding.
