McGregor declares intent to run for President of Ireland

SHAH ALAM - Former mixed martial arts (MMA) champion Conor McGregor has declared his intention to run for President of Ireland, promising to address contentious issues like the European Union (EU) Migration Pact through a public referendum if elected.

The 36-year-old made his announcement during a St. Patrick’s Day visit to the White House, where he met with former US President Donald Trump.

Irish professional mixed martial artist and businessman Conor McGregor (L) speaks from the White House briefing room podium with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt (R) in Washington, DC, on March 17, 2025. (Photo by Jim WATSON/AFP)

"It's neither mine nor the government’s choice to make.

"It is the people of Ireland's choice," McGregor voiced strong opposition to the EU Migration Pact on Instagram.

He criticised the Irish government’s support for the pact, demanding an explanation for its backing and pledging to give the public a direct vote on the matter.

In his post, McGregor shared an image of himself holding a young child in front of an aircraft, wearing a green cap with the slogan 'Make Ireland Great Again.'

His remarks, however, have drawn sharp criticism from Ireland’s political leaders.

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin deemed McGregor’s comments inappropriate and unreflective of the inclusive spirit of St. Patrick’s Day.

Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris dismissed McGregor’s statements, claiming that the former MMA star lacks the authority to represent the Irish people.

The European Commission explained that the EU Migration Pact aims to establish a unified system for managing migration and asylum policies across member states.

McGregor’s opposition stems from fears that such measures could undermine Ireland’s cultural identity, a sentiment he expressed in Washington by claiming Ireland risked losing its "Irishness" due to "illegal immigration."

Controversial History Shadows McGregor’s Campaign

While McGregor’s political aspirations have stirred debate, his controversial past continues to fuel public skepticism.

Nikita Hand was awarded nearly EUR €250,000 in damages after the High Court jury in Ireland found that she was raped by MMA fighter Conor McGregor in a hotel in Dublin in December 2018. Following the verdict, Hand expressed gratitude for the support she received throughout the trial.

Last year, McGregor was found liable in a civil case for raping Nikita Hand in a Dublin hotel in 2018.

The High Court awarded Hand nearly €250,000 in damages, following a trial that included graphic testimony from medical professionals.

Key evidence revealed that a tampon, "wedged" deep inside Hand’s vagina, had to be surgically removed by a doctor the day after the assault.

McGregor’s rise to fame as a UFC champion brought him global acclaim, but his career has been marred by numerous legal and personal controversies.

In 2019, he pleaded guilty to assaulting a man in a Dublin pub, further damaging his public image.