Conor McGregor, the controversial MMA fighter, has hinted that retirement from the UFC might be on the horizon as he sets his sights on a career in politics.
After his last UFC appearance in 2021, where he faced two back-to-back losses to Dustin Poirier, McGregor has been absent from the octagon.
He was slated for a return at UFC 303 to face his longtime rival Michael Chandler, but an injury forced him to withdraw.
A Change in Direction Following White House Visit
Rather than focusing on a fight comeback, McGregor shocked fans last week by revealing his plans to run for President of Ireland.
This announcement comes just after his highly publicized trip to the White House, where he met US President Donald Trump.
During a post-fight press conference at BKFC 70, McGregor opened up about his future and his shift in priorities.
Despite having two fights left on his UFC contract, the 36-year-old hinted that his future might lie elsewhere.
“I’ve got two fights on the contract… I’m happy with what I’ve done,” McGregor stated.
“Something else for me is in my gut right now, and that’s where we are going.
Ireland is in my thoughts, and that’s where I am at.”
His words seemed to indicate that MMA may no longer be the focal point of his career.
The White House Visit and Political Ambitions
McGregor’s visit to the White House has raised eyebrows, as he used the opportunity to criticize Ireland’s Prime Minister and speak out against immigration policies.
His comments suggested that he believes Ireland risks losing its identity due to growing immigration.
Following the trip, McGregor posted an image on Instagram, wearing a ‘Make Ireland Great Again’ cap, and announced his intention to run for the Irish Presidency.
In his Instagram post, McGregor outlined his plans to influence Irish politics.
“Ireland must fully implement the EU Migration Pact by June 12, 2026.
Between now and then, several pieces of legislation must be passed,” he wrote. “I will stand up to the Government and oppose this bill.
Any other Presidential candidate will be no resistance. I will.”
McGregor’s Bold Political Statements
McGregor’s political platform has drawn attention, as he’s become vocal about the future of Ireland’s governance.
He declared that he would put the EU Migration Pact to a referendum if elected President. “It is not for the government to decide.
It is the people’s choice!” McGregor emphasized, showcasing his commitment to democracy.
He also took to X (formerly Twitter) to rally support, writing, “Ireland, the choice is yours and it is an easy one.
Vote for me as your President and we will SAVE IRELAND TOGETHER!”
A New Chapter for McGregor
While McGregor has not officially retired from MMA, his statements hint at a major shift in his career ambitions.
The fighter, who once dominated the UFC, is now focused on making an impact in the political sphere.
As he continues to stoke controversy with his bold views, it remains to be seen if the Irish public will embrace his presidential bid.