Dee Devlin has reportedly received more than €1 million in director’s fees from McGregor Sports and Entertainment, the management company founded by her partner, mixed martial artist Conor McGregor. This substantial sum has been accrued over a three-year period, highlighting Devlin’s significant role in the operations of the company.

The fees represent a share of the total compensation allocated to the board of directors, which has been instrumental in managing McGregor’s diverse business interests. These include not only his fighting career but also various ventures in the fields of whiskey, fashion, and fitness. The financial details were disclosed in documents filed with the Companies Registration Office in Dublin, Ireland.

Financial Insights on McGregor’s Business Ventures

McGregor Sports and Entertainment has emerged as a lucrative enterprise, reflecting the brand’s global appeal. The €1 million in fees to Devlin underscores her importance in the company’s strategic planning and decision-making processes. The management firm has played a critical role in elevating McGregor’s brand, particularly following his rise to fame in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

In addition to her directorial duties, Devlin has been a key figure in McGregor’s personal and professional life, supporting him throughout his career. Her involvement in the business reflects a shared vision for their future endeavors and a commitment to expanding the McGregor brand.

Implications for the Future of McGregor Sports

As the company continues to expand, the financial success illustrated by Devlin’s earnings may pave the way for further investment and growth. The management team, including Devlin, is expected to explore new opportunities that align with McGregor’s evolving brand and market presence.

This significant financial reward for Devlin not only highlights her contributions but also raises questions about the future direction of McGregor Sports and Entertainment. With McGregor’s brand value estimated in the hundreds of millions, the growth potential remains substantial.

The financial disclosures serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of personal and professional success within the realm of sports management. As the company navigates the complexities of the entertainment industry, both McGregor and Devlin are likely to remain at the forefront of its developments, shaping the future of their ventures together.

A recent Elvis Presley show, titled Elvis Evolution, has faced significant criticism from attendees who feel misled by its promotional promises. The experience, which opened at the ExCel London this month, featured grainy video clips alongside an impersonator dancing on stage, rather than the anticipated cutting-edge technology such as holograms that many fans were expecting.

The show was marketed as a vibrant journey through the life of the King of Rock and Roll, leading many to draw comparisons to the successful Abba Voyage virtual concerts. However, disappointed fans who spent up to £300 for VIP tickets reported that the experience fell short of their expectations. Instead of a holographic depiction of Elvis, audiences were met with an actor performing in front of video projections of the legendary singer.

Chas Johnson, a 48-year-old attendee, expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, “The whole thing is lamentable. But where it goes really wrong is where there was meant to be something akin to Abba Voyage with a hologram of Elvis, the focal point, that’s completely missing.” His sentiments were echoed by others in the audience, who looked around in disbelief wondering if this was indeed the full experience.

The backlash against Elvis Evolution has drawn comparisons to last year’s Willy Wonka Experience in Glasgow, which failed to meet audience expectations and left some children in tears. Both shows faced criticism for not delivering the immersive experiences that were promised, leading to negative reviews from attendees.

In response to the uproar, a spokesperson for Elvis Evolution clarified that plans for a hologram concert had been abandoned during the development phase. They emphasized that this change was communicated when tickets went on sale, aiming to manage expectations. Additionally, they stated that the show has received praise from both fans and newcomers, suggesting that not all attendees shared the same disappointment.

While the show continues to run, the initial reactions indicate that future productions may need to better align their marketing with the actual experience provided to ensure audience satisfaction. The contrast between what was promised and what was delivered has sparked discussions about the standards of live entertainment and the importance of transparency in promotional efforts.

Dunnes Stores has unveiled a new Stud Crossbody Bag priced at just €15, ideal for summer holidays. This stylish black faux suede bag, adorned with silver studs, is now available in stores and online. With a slim shape that zips at the top and an adjustable strap, it is designed for convenience and style, making it perfect for sightseeing and carrying essentials.

In addition to the crossbody bag, Dunnes Stores has introduced the Gallery Lucia Denim Shift Dress, a versatile wardrobe staple available for €35. This timeless piece features a structured square neckline and a full button-through front, complemented by four patch pockets with button closures. The dress, offered in sizes 8 to 18, is suitable for summer wear on its own or layered in the cooler months, providing flexibility for various occasions.

Fashion Finds at Dunnes Stores

Another notable addition to Dunnes’ fashion lineup is the Savida Bella Midi V-Neck Dress, also retailing for €35. This dress features a deep v-neck with decorative ties and a tiered skirt in a soft baby pink hue. It has garnered positive attention from fashion enthusiasts, including influencer Monica, who highlighted its versatility for different occasions. She noted on Instagram, “Such a sweet dress that you can wear day or night, to the beach or out for a casual dinner.”

Dunnes Stores officials described the dress as having a flattering v-neckline and an elegant silhouette, embellished with delicate embroidered motifs. The tiered skirt is designed to flow beautifully with every step, which enhances its appeal for casual evenings out. Sizes range from XXS to XXL, ensuring a wide selection for shoppers.

A Legacy of Quality and Value

Dunnes Stores began its journey in 1944 with the opening of its first store on Patrick Street in Cork. The retailer quickly gained popularity, drawing crowds eager for quality clothing at accessible prices. The excitement surrounding the store was so intense that police were called to manage the throngs of shoppers.

As the years progressed, Dunnes Stores expanded its offerings, introducing groceries in 1960 and eventually growing into a major retailer with 142 stores across Ireland and Northern Ireland. The company now employs approximately 15,000 people and continues to prioritize value by sourcing a wide range of products from both local and international suppliers.

The latest fashion releases from Dunnes Stores reflect its commitment to providing stylish, affordable options for customers. As summer approaches, these new items are set to become favorites among shoppers looking to enhance their seasonal wardrobes.

Concerts have emerged as a prominent pastime for many young adults in Ireland, particularly among the Gen Z demographic. With a growing appetite for live music, individuals like Kate Henshaw, a 24-year-old from Malahide, are investing significantly in concert tickets, viewing them as a vital part of their social lives. Henshaw estimates her annual expenditure on live music exceeds €1,000, a figure she considers justified given the enjoyment these events provide.

Recent research from the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO) indicates that Irish adults spent an average of €757 on music events in 2024. This number encompasses not only ticket prices but also related costs such as transportation and accommodation. Henshaw’s spending is indicative of a larger trend; individuals aged 25 to 34 spent the most on live events, averaging €849 per person, while those aged 45 to 54 and 18 to 24 were not far behind, averaging €823 and €811 respectively. In contrast, the 35 to 44 age group reported a drop to €615, a trend attributed by IMRO’s chief executive, Victor Finn, to increased care responsibilities during that stage of life.

Henshaw, who attended 16 gigs in the previous year and 19 live music events in 2023, describes a particularly intensive stretch during the summer of 2023, where she attended nine concerts in just 30 days. “I was exhausted,” she reflected. The sheer volume of events contributes to her justification of the costs, as she often purchases tickets well in advance, making the expense feel less burdensome. She admits to spending nearly €1,500 on tickets in 2024 if she were to be completely honest.

Living in Dublin provides Henshaw with access to a range of large-scale concerts. Yet, she notes logistical challenges, particularly with public transport after events. “Public transport could link in better with some of the major events,” Finn remarked, suggesting that improved coordination could alleviate additional costs for concertgoers.

Ticket prices have surged since the return of regular event scheduling following the pandemic. Henshaw recalls that attending concerts was significantly cheaper before the COVID-19 crisis. The demand for live music, coupled with inflation, has propelled ticket costs to new heights. Finn acknowledges this trend, stating, “There’s a sort of social shift in experiencing live events…people wanting to get out and socialise more after the pandemic has benefited the live music sector.”

While Henshaw embraces the concert experience, she draws a firm line at purchasing VIP tickets, which she considers overpriced. “I have never paid VIP for a gig and I never will,” she stated, citing recent examples where VIP packages, such as those for Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, significantly inflated ticket prices. While Henshaw paid approximately €200 for her ticket, a friend opting for VIP access spent nearly €700 for a similar view.

The concert scene in Ireland is not without its challenges. Johnny Wang, a 23-year-old student from Ballsbridge, remarked on the high costs associated with attending major events, stating, “It’s such a rip-off in Ireland at the moment.” Wang has spent at least €700 on concert tickets over the past year, noting that large venues often charge exorbitant amounts. His own experiences include attending around ten gigs in the last year, with his most significant expense being the Lido Festival in London, where general admission tickets started at £75 (€87).

For those like Aoibhinn Clancy, a 22-year-old from Dublin, attending concerts has become a significant part of her lifestyle. Clancy estimates she spent around €1,100 on 14 concert and festival tickets in the last year, emphasizing the value of experiences over material goods. “I have never regretted spending money on a concert,” she stated, highlighting her enjoyment of events featuring artists like Lana Del Rey and Elvis Costello.

Despite the high costs, many young adults continue to prioritize live music as a key part of their social experience. Clancy recognizes that her spending places her among a more dedicated group of concertgoers, stating, “Going to concerts is kind of my thing, my hobby.” As concert attendance remains a cherished activity, the trend reflects not only a passion for music but also a willingness to invest in memorable experiences.