Conor McGregor helps shatter Amazon record with Road House a box office smash

Conor McGregor’s leap into Hollywood not only marks his debut but also fuels Amazon’s record-breaking blockbuster success.

The UFC star, the biggest name in mixed martial arts, has added another string to his bow with his starring role in Road House, a remake of the 1989 cult classic.

The action flick evolves around Elwood Dalton (portrayed by Jake Gyllenhaal), a once-famed UFC fighter who ends up as head bouncer at a roadhouse in the Florida Keys that is the subject of repeated fighting among punters.

And McGregor, who plays Knox, congratulated Amazon Prime for the success, which is believed to be the streaming service’s most watched film ever at 50 million since it came out on 21 March, which is thought to be the equivalent of $750m.

He posted on Twitter: “Congrats to Amazon studios and MGM studios on Road House becoming their most watched movie of all time! 50 million viewers over two weekends. That’s $750m at the box office. In 10 days! Insane! Congrats all the team, it was a pleasure.”

In addition, the former two-weight champion claims to have made another bit of Hollywood history with his payday for the film, telling the world he is the highest paid first time actor ever.

But he isn’t looking to make anymore films as he eyes a return to his first love.

McGregor hasn’t fought since losing to Dustin Poirier in 2021. His highly-anticipated comeback to the octagon is expected to happen this year and is likely to come against Michael Chandler.

There’s currently no confirmation regarding the date or venue for the fight, but the Dubliner is optimistic about a potential slot on June 29 during the promotion’s highly anticipated pay-per-view event in Las Vegas.

Chandler, though, said an announcement was expected soon and now fans are awaiting UFC CEO Dana White to make it.

As well as Chandler, McGregor would also like another chance to fight Poirier given the last one, in 2021 ended with him breaking his leg. He is also targeting a lucrative third fight with Nate Diaz.