Conor McGregor, the UFC star and former lightweight champion, has shared that he recently underwent Ibogaine treatment in Tijuana, Mexico, at the guidance of doctors at Stanford University. He described the experience as intense and life-changing, claiming that the 36-hour process saved his life and healed his brain after enduring significant trauma and mental health struggles. During the treatment, McGregor reported experiencing vivid visions, including one where he envisioned his own death and saw himself as a “crown” anointed by Jesus, which he believed was a spiritual moment of transformation.
The Ibogaine therapy, derived from the roots of the Tabernanthe iboga plant, has been previously studied for its potential to treat traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), PTSD, anxiety, and depression. A January 2024 report by Stanford University highlighted the substance’s potential to reduce PTSD and anxiety in veterans with TBIs when combined with magnesium to protect the heart. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not approve Ibogaine for medical use due to its potential risks, including cardiotoxicity and psychological effects, as outlined in a study by the University of Virginia School of Medicine.
McGregor’s decision to pursue the treatment coincided with his recent suspension from the UFC. In October, the UFC announced that he had accepted a 18-month ineligibility period for violating the company’s anti-doping policy after missing several urine tests. His suspension is retroactive, meaning he could return to competition as early as March 2026 — three months before the potential White House fight card that McGregor has publicly expressed hopes of participating in. The fighter, who is known for his controversial statements and public persona, has described the treatment as a transformative experience that not only healed his physical and mental state but also offered him a new sense of purpose and clarity in life.
McGregor’s comments were shared on his social media platform, where he expressed deep gratitude for the treatment, calling it “the most enlightening and enchanting experience I have ever undertaken”. He also thanked his family, fans, and supporters for their prayers and encouragement, stating that they had played a crucial role in his recovery. While his claims of the treatment’s efficacy have sparked debate, particularly due to the lack of FDA approval, McGregor remains optimistic about its impact on his personal and professional life, especially as he looks to return to the UFC in 2026.