Conor McGregor causes controversy as UFC star poses with shotgun

Conor McGregor poses with a shotgun. Photo / Instagram

Conor McGregor may be used to making headlines but he has caused controversy with his most recent social media post due to its poor taste.

Posing in a red robe with gold detail, the current UFC featherweight champion took to his Instagram page to show off a shotgun.

Standing with a widened stance, he looks menacingly into the camera and has added the caption: 'You need people like me,' a line used by Tony Montana in the legendary 1983 film Scarface.

While the post was more than likely just another way for the Irishman to flaunt his deserved wealth, some fans appreciated the image, while others were quick to vent anger, responding with fierce criticism.

'Why post a pic with a gun when its (sic) guns what kill innocent people everyday and you hold it like its a toy?', one user wrote.

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'What a d***. Clearly had all the taste punched out of him,' was another comment.

Holly Carpenter - a former Miss Ireland winner - took to her Twitter, writing: 'Ah why did McGregor just post a photo on Instagram holding a gun'.

McGregor regularly updates his followers with news of his latest purchases and love of the finer things in life and after earning a record $3m purse following his win over Nate Diaz, he has now become one of the highest paid fighters in mixed martial arts.

After his bloody battle with Diaz at UFC 202, in which he battered the American over five rounds, McGregor showed he had plenty of fire power in both his hands and feet, allowing him to avenge his earlier loss when he was submitted by Diaz back in March.

However, the victory could come at a cost, as the 28-year-old - who was seen limping away after the bout - could be out of action for at least six months due to a medical suspension.