On 4/9, McGregor posted a video in front of a government building in Dublin, reiterating his anti-immigration stance and populist views, while promising to address the rise in child homelessness if elected. The fighter described himself as a "martial arts master, a solution finder", and urged supporters to contact local councils to campaign for nominations.

Conor McGregor in a video announcing his continued pursuit of the Irish presidency, posted on social media on 4/9. Source: Social Media

Conor McGregor in a video announcing his continued pursuit of the Irish presidency, posted on social media on 4/9. Source: Social Media

Under Irish electoral law, presidential candidates must be over 35 and nominated by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas (Irish Parliament) or at least four local councils. The deadline for McGregor to meet these requirements is 24/9, before the election on 24/10.

"Local councilors are the backbone of the community," McGregor said. "They work harder and bring more value to the people than the Oireachtas, which continually lets the country down. If you feel your voice is being ignored, your hands are tied, your community abandoned, I urge you to stand with me. Nominate me, and I'll give you the real power to be heard."

This message contrasts with his confident statement on 27/8, when he claimed to have met the eligibility criteria. McGregor officially announced his intention to run in March, just days after visiting the White House and meeting US President Donald Trump for St. Patrick's Day.

Conor McGregor (left) talks with US President Donald Trump at the White House on 17/3/2025. Photo: SIPA

Conor McGregor (left) talks with US President Donald Trump at the White House on 17/3/2025. Photo: SIPA

However, McGregor's ambition has met with strong reactions from politicians. On 5/9, Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris stated that the 37-year-old fighter has "next to no chance and represents the worst of us."

Harris referenced McGregor's 2018 civil court case related to a sexual assault allegation, arguing that he doesn't embody the values the Irish people want in a head of state. "We live in a democracy. Anyone can seek a nomination. But the likelihood of McGregor receiving one is minimal," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

McGregor immediately responded, accusing Harris of defamation and asserting that his campaign focuses on issues important to many Irish people. The fighter also called for the Deputy Prime Minister's resignation and pledged to bring accountability if elected.

McGregor appears at the O2 arena before the heavyweight boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Robert Helenius in London, England on 12/8/2023. Photo: Reuters

McGregor appears at the O2 arena before the heavyweight boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Robert Helenius in London, England on 12/8/2023. Photo: Reuters

With a record of 22 wins and 6 losses, McGregor has held UFC featherweight and lightweight titles and was the first UFC fighter to hold championships in two weight classes simultaneously. He is considered the UFC's pay-per-view king, featuring in five of its highest-grossing events. The 37-year-old was ranked by Forbes as the world's highest-paid athlete in 2021, earning USD 180 million. He also appeared on the list in 2018, earning USD 99 million and ranking fourth.

McGregor's career is synonymous with MMA, but the fight that elevated him to superstardom was his boxing match against Floyd "Money" Mayweather in August 2017. McGregor lost to the American boxer but still earned USD 100 million from the spectacle.

Recently, however, McGregor has been in the news for scandals. He spat on a man who expressed support for rival Khabib Nurmagomedov, was accused of sexually harassing a famous rapper, and was seen being affectionate with a stranger while celebrating his 37th birthday.

The Irish fighter also lost a civil lawsuit related to the 2018 sexual assault allegation by Nikita Hand and was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a restroom after the NBA Finals in Miami, US, in June 2023.

Therefore, the public is questioning whether the famous fighter has the political credibility to lead a European nation.

Compiled by Hong Duy