No one expected it… And yet, it’s official: former UFC lightweight champion and world MMA star Conor McGregor has expressed his intention to run in the 2025 Irish presidential elections. A decision taken in response to the recent knife attack in Dublin…
Nothing surprises the Irish anymore when it comes to Conor McGregor. A controversial figure, as hated as he is loved, the young man never ceases to multiply his outbursts and provocations of all kinds. Often described as a “bling-bling” thug, he is nonetheless praised for his performances in the octagon and his iconic words, which have attracted attention far beyond the circle of MMA fans!
With a business empire built around his own brand of whisky (Proper 12) and lucrative confrontations, including one with Floyd Mayweather, McGregor has always enjoyed taking on new challenges.
But no one expected him to enter politics! Even less so as a candidate for the presidency of the Republic of Ireland!
It all began with the terrible knife attack in Dublin last November, which left 5 people injured. This event had a profound effect on the Irish people, and rekindled the debate on immigration (the perpetrator being a foreigner of Algerian origin, who had been living in Ireland for almost 20 years).
Accustomed to expressing his views on social networks, Conor McGregor then took to the debate, sharply criticizing the Irish politicians in place, blaming them for their inaction. He pointed out that Irish politicians were governing themselves rather than governing for the people.
The MMA fighter took advantage of these populist statements to announce his intention to run for President of Ireland.
For 35-year-old Conor McGregor, it’s time to make the transition from the current politicians. The sportsman presents himself as a young, active and passionate candidate, with no party affiliations or prejudices. He proposes to involve the Irish people more in political decision-making by introducing weekly votes, and claims to be able to finance these initiatives.
He would also like to place particular emphasis on the issue of immigration. After expressing concern about Ireland’s national security, he wants to implement a stricter policy towards illegal migrants.
To achieve this, McGregor proposes the creation of a specialized group, which he would call “Ireland Protect”. This group would be tasked with scrutinizing the situation of foreigners wishing to enter Ireland, with the aim of strengthening national security and regulating immigration.
Although some may perceive this announcement as a publicity stunt, McGregor’s statements on social networks were widely reported by the media.
His popularity and notoriety could play a significant role in his election campaign, especially as celebrities gain more and more influence in the political sphere.
The proof is in the pudding: Elon Musk himself is said to have welcomed the Irishman’s stance, declaring that the fighter could well prevail over the other candidates:
I think you could beat them all single-handed.
Elon Musk
One thing’s for sure: Ireland hasn’t finished with the MMA champion!
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