Memorable maybe, but McGregor fades in our affections

It may have been Conor McGregor’s year, in terms of earnings banked, but in the nation’s affections, Notorious has shipped losses in 2017.

During his recent appearance at Blanchardstown District Court on a speeding charge, McGregor confirmed to Judge Miriam Walsh that his daily rate is now €140m, referring to his blockbuster crossover showdown with Floyd Mayweather in August.

According to the annual Teneo Sports’ Sponsorship Index survey, released yesterday, that Las Vegas fight — won by Mayweather — was the sporting event of the year, with 26% ranking it their most memorable sporting moment, double the vote for James McClean’s goal against Wales in the World Cup qualifiers and also ahead of Joe Canning’s last-gasp match-winning point against Tipperary to win the All-Ireland hurling semi-final.