proper men X Factor winner James Arthur and Conor McGregor playfully square up at Black Forge Inn

Former X Factor winner James Arthur was full of praises for Conor McGregor’s Black Forge Inn when he stopped by for a few pints and a meal at the Dublin pub on his way to a gig in the Olympia. 

The singer even posed with McGregor himself for a series of snaps he shared on Instagram showing the pair playfully squaring up.

The Middlesbrough man declared himself to be a big fan of the MMA superstar in the post.

He wrote: "Thank you so much Conor McGregor and your incredible staff at The Black Forge Inn for your hospitality today the food and drink was some of the best we’ve ever had! Best stout in the game!

"I’ve been an admirer of this man and what he’s been able to achieve in his career and continues to achieve despite all the naysayers.

"I’ve followed his journey for over 10 years and have been inspired by him as I felt our stories aligned in a lot of ways.

"It was truly an honour to sit down and talk to the man in person today.

"He is as cool and as charismatic as you would think but also very humble. A proper man. Thanks again mate.

"Hope me and the band can put on an entertaining show for you tonight in Dublin!"

McGregor responded: "Top man James! Pleasure to meet you at the spot today!

"Looking forward to tonight, the final show of your tour! The best for last baby let’s go!"

The Impossible singer has established himself as one of the more successful winners of the British music talent show with four albums and multiple Brit award nominations.