Could the UFC champion who recently met with President Trump be gearing up for a political fight of his own? Conor McGregor has shocked fans and critics alike with his declaration that he plans to run for Ireland’s presidency on an anti-immigration platform.
At a glance:
• UFC star Conor McGregor announced plans to run for President of Ireland following a meeting with Donald Trump at the White House
• McGregor’s political platform centers on opposition to the EU Migration Pact and giving Irish citizens more direct representation
• Irish leaders, including Prime Minister Micheál Martin, have criticized McGregor, saying he doesn’t represent Ireland
• McGregor has increasingly expressed populist right-wing views since the COVID-19 pandemic
• Despite ongoing legal controversies, including appealing a civil case verdict where he was found liable for assault, McGregor remains committed to his political ambitions
McGregor’s White House Visit Sparks Presidential Ambitions
UFC superstar Conor McGregor has officially declared his intention to run for President of Ireland after meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House. The Irish fighter made his political aspirations clear during a visit to Washington for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, where he slammed Ireland’s current leadership and immigration policies.
McGregor’s political journey appeared to gain momentum following his meeting with Trump, where the two discussed issues facing Ireland. The fighter praised Trump’s “inspiring” work ethic while the President reciprocated by describing McGregor as “fantastic.”
Anti-Immigration Platform and EU Criticism
At the center of McGregor’s political platform is his fierce opposition to the EU Migration Pact, which he claims undermines the interests of ordinary Irish citizens. The UFC champion has become increasingly vocal about immigration issues, particularly following the 2023 Dublin riots after an incident involving a knife attack against children in the Irish capital.
McGregor has proposed a referendum on the EU Migration Pact, saying the public should have a say in Ireland’s future. His stance has earned him support from conservatives who share his concerns about unchecked immigration, while drawing sharp criticism from Ireland’s political establishment.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin called McGregor’s claims ‘wrong,’ and said that they did “not reflect the views of the Irish people.” Deputy Premier Simon Harris added that McGregor “has no mandate” to speak for Ireland.
From Fighter to Political Contender
McGregor’s transformation from MMA champion to political aspirant began during the COVID-19 pandemic when he started expressing right-wing views online. The fighter has positioned himself as an outsider who will challenge the political establishment and give ordinary citizens a voice in government.
Despite facing personal controversies, including a civil case verdict which found him liable for assault in a rape accusation, McGregor remains undeterred. He describes himself as the “only logical choice” for Ireland’s presidency.
The fighter’s entrance into politics marks a growing trend of celebrities leveraging their fame to pursue political office. His candidacy, should it materialize formally, would likely energize supporters who feel disconnected from traditional politics.
