UFC star Conor McGregor has pulled out of his run for Ireland’s presidency as he prepares for the upcoming UFC White House card.
The MMA legend announced on Sunday that he will withdraw from the presidential race scheduled for next month.
“Following careful reflection, and after consulting with my family, I am withdrawing my candidacy from this presidential race,” McGregor wrote on Twitter. “This was not an easy decision, but it is the right one at this moment in time. While I will not contest this election, my commitment to Ireland does not end here. I will continue to serve my people by using my international platform to promote Irish interests abroad, strengthen our economic opportunities, and advocate for transparency and responsibility in public life at home.
“This campaign has sparked an important conversation about democracy in Ireland, about who gets to stand, who gets to choose, and how we can ensure that the presidency truly belongs to the people. That conversation will not end with my withdrawal.”
McGregor launched his campaign after meeting with Donald Trump at the White House and even received an endorsement from billionaire Elon Musk.
Despite approval from notable influencers, McGregor continues to face controversy. In 2018, he was accused of raping Nikita Hand, and she was awarded €250,000 after a jury in Dublin found him liable. Another sexual assault case surfaced in 2023 when a woman accused him of assault during the NBA Finals between the Miami Heat and the Denver Nuggets. Previously, McGregor pleaded guilty to assault in a 2019 incident where he punched an elderly man during an argument inside a Dublin bar.
Notwithstanding his rocky past, McGregor was eager to take a political position, declaring that he hoped to raise issues concerning immigration if elected. However, McGregor did not meet the requirements, as a potential candidate must be endorsed by at least 20 members of Parliament.
Following his withdrawal, McGregor revealed that stepping back does not mean losing interest. The fighter said he remains committed to Ireland’s politics and intends to stay involved.
“My first venture into politics, and although I have chosen to withdraw this round, meaningful progress has been made,” McGregor said. “I want to assure the people of Ireland that this will not be my last election. You will see me canvassing again in the future, fighting for your rights and representing the best interests of our nation.”
McGregor has now shifted his full attention back to MMA. After a four-year hiatus due to his injury in a bout with Dustin Poirier, he has re-entered the anti-doping program and awaits a call from UFC president Dana White.
