Arsenal Football Club is contemplating a significant policy change that would ban their players from interacting with corporate guests at the Emirates Stadium. This comes in the wake of an incident involving former UFC champion Conor McGregor, who allegedly aimed playful punches and kicks at Arsenal player Bukayo Saka.
McGregor attended Arsenal's 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League match last Tuesday. After the match, he made his way onto the pitch where he had a brief kickabout with Declan Rice and Saka. Before posing for photos, McGregor playfully aimed leg kicks at Saka and grappled with him as if attempting a takedown on the England star.
According to The Times, McGregor did not have permission to enter the pitch, leading to an internal investigation by Arsenal into how this was allowed to happen. There is reportedly 'a high level of concern' within the club about how McGregor was able to aim punches and kicks - albeit playfully - at one of their most valuable players.
VIP access through third party company
McGregor and his entourage are said to have received VIP tickets through third-party company 1Access. They secured a corporate package that included a box at Emirates Stadium where celebrities are regularly present.
However, it was his antics with Saka that were deemed 'the most worrying' for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. As such, changes are being considered regarding arrangements that allow players to mingle with celebrity fans after games.
Arsenal also appears keen on distancing themselves from any association with McGregor due to his history of controversies. In 2019, he was convicted of assault after punching a man in a Dublin pub. Additionally, during half-time segment last year he flattened Burnie - Miami Heat's mascot - who had to be taken off court and hospitalized after being struck twice.
McGregor's future in UFC
McGregor has not fought in the Octagon since July 2021 when he suffered a broken leg during his trilogy defeat to Dustin Poirier. A proposed return against Michael Chandler has repeatedly fallen through this year, with Chandler shifting focus to Charles Oliveira in November. As such, McGregor is not expected to fight until next year at the earliest.
Arsenal's potential rule change highlights the club's commitment to player safety and maintaining a professional environment for their athletes. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of clear boundaries between players and fans - even those with celebrity status.