Explained: Why history-making Katie McCabe earned invitation to Conor McGregor’s ‘Black Forge Inn’ pub before signing new Arsenal contract

The UFC legend extended that invitation on the back of McCabe’s exploits at the 2023 Women’s World Cup. She made history at that tournament when scoring the Republic of Ireland’s first goal at FIFA’s global gathering – with the target found direct from a corner against Canada.

McGregor described that effort as “iconic”, before then asking McCabe to visit his Dublin-based watering hole. That invitation was accepted but McCabe is yet to meet McGregor, with the 28-year-old midfielder telling talkSPORT: “Conor invited me and my family to his pub back in Dublin, which was really kind of him and his family to look after us. I guess when you’re playing on the world stage, there’s more eyes on you. You’re attracting these high-profile athletes as well. It’s no more than the girls deserve to be playing on those world stages because people have sacrificed a lot, especially the girls on my Ireland team. They’ve sacrificed so much to get there and achieve those moments. It’s the beauty of a team sport [as] you’re able to share it together then. I haven’t actually met him, no! He was on holiday! So, I didn’t meet him in the end, but I’m sure we’ll cross paths in the next few months, I’m sure.”

McCabe has also had cause for celebration at club level, with a new contract signed at Arsenal after talk of interest from Chelsea and Manchester City. She has said of committing to the Gunners ahead of the 2023-24 WSL campaign: “I’ve recently had a lot of thinking to do about my future. From the second that I stepped foot in this place, I knew it was a special club. I love you, Gooners. I’m here to stay. Now let’s get to work!”

McCabe has taken in 193 appearances for Arsenal since joining them from Shelbourne in December 2015 – with 31 goals scored along the way. She has won the Women’s Super League title while in north London, as well as the Women’s FA Cup and two League Cups.