UFC star Conor McGregor is stepping into a new ring as he announces his presidential ambitions for Ireland. His powerful stance against illegal immigration and criticism of his home country’s leadership comes after a high-profile White House meeting with President Donald Trump.
At a glance:
• Conor McGregor has announced his intention to run for President of Ireland, focusing on anti-immigration policies
• The UFC fighter recently visited the White House and met with President Donald Trump
• McGregor has been vocal about his opposition to the EU Migration Pact
• Irish leadership, including Prime Minister Micheál Martin, have criticized McGregor’s political statements
• The MMA star is positioning himself as a voice for Irish citizens who feel unrepresented by current government
McGregor Meets Trump, Announces Presidential Ambitions
UFC superstar Conor McGregor has officially thrown his hat into the political ring, announcing his candidacy for Ireland’s presidency following a high-profile visit to the White House where he met with President Donald Trump. The MMA fighter’s political aspirations have emerged alongside his increasingly vocal stance on immigration issues and criticism of Ireland’s current leadership. Years of open border immigration to Ireland has caused uproar among the Irish public, meaning McGregor’s message may hit home with many.
During his White House appearance, the fighter praised Trump’s “inspiring” work ethic, while the President reciprocated by describing McGregor as “fantastic.” McGregor’s rightward political shift was revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic when he began criticizing the Irish government online.
Fighting Against EU Migration Pact
McGregor has positioned himself as a champion for Irish citizens concerned about immigration policies, particularly targeting the EU Migration Pact. His political platform centers on giving voters a direct say in immigration matters through a proposed referendum on the pact.
MMA fighter Conor McGregor has spoken at the White House in Washington about mass immigration into Ireland. McGregor spoke after his meeting with President Trump.
Conor McGregor has been a world champion Mixed Martial Arts fighter and has become a controversial figure not only… pic.twitter.com/VaP3mhCPfq
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Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin said McGregor’s claims were ‘wrong,’ and do not reflect the views of the Irish people.” The pushback from Ireland’s establishment has appeared to strengthen McGregor’s resolve to pursue leadership.
Deputy Premier Simon Harris added further criticism, stating that McGregor “has no mandate” to speak for Ireland internationally. The fighter’s controversial statements come amid ongoing legal troubles, including a civil case in which he was found liable for assault following a rape accusation.
Challenging Ireland’s Political Establishment
McGregor’s political journey gained momentum following the 2023 Dublin riots that occurred after an incident involving an Algerian migrant. The fighter has repeatedly accused the Irish government of failing to represent citizens’ interests and has described himself as the “only logical choice” for President.
The UFC star emphasized his commitment to democracy during his White House visit, calling for greater accountability from government officials. His candidacy represents a direct challenge to Ireland’s political establishment, which he claims has ignored public concerns about immigration and national sovereignty.
