Conor McGregor, a former UFC champion, is fighting to get on Ireland’s presidential ballot for the 2025 election. On August 4, 2025, he launched an online petition to change the country’s strict nomination rules, which require support from 20 Oireachtas members or four county councils. McGregor called the system a barrier to democracy and urged fans to sign his petition.
McGregor’s call for change
McGregor shared his petition on X, stating:
“To the esteemed citizens of Ireland and the Irish diaspora, I, Conor McGregor hereby declare my intention to seek the esteemed office of President of Ireland. The current constitutional framework however, presents a significant barrier to democratic participation. The existing regulations mandate that a candidate must secure nominations from either twenty members of the Oireachtas or four county councils to be eligible for the ballot. This system, while intended to ensure a degree of political influence among candidates, inadvertently restricts the direct voice of the Irish electorate.”
He continued, “In light of this, I propose a petition advocating for a modification of the nomination process to allow my name be included on the ballot. I contend that the citizens of Ireland, both at home and abroad, should have the unhindered right to determine the candidates who appear on the presidential ballot. Therefore, I implore you to join me in this endeavor by signing this petition. Your support will be instrumental in championing a more inclusive and democratic electoral process, thereby empowering the people of Ireland to shape their own future. SIGN MY PETITION NOW TO SAVE IRELAND!”
To the esteemed citizens of Ireland and the Irish diaspora,
I, Conor McGregor hereby declare my intention to seek the esteemed office of President of Ireland. The current constitutional framework however, presents a significant barrier to democratic participation. The existing…
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) August 4, 2025
Conor McGregor, 37, is from Dublin, Ireland, and became the UFC’s first two-division champion, holding featherweight and lightweight titles in 2016. His record is 22-6, with wins over Jose Aldo and Eddie Alvarez. He last fought in 2021, breaking his leg against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. Legal issues include a 2024 civil sexual assault case, where he was ordered to pay €250,000 to Nikita Hand for a 2018 incident. He lost his appeal in July 2025.
McGregor’s public profile grew through his 2017 boxing match with Floyd Mayweather and his whiskey brand, Proper No. Twelve. In March 2025, he met U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss Ireland’s issues, sparking his presidential run announcement.
In September 2024, McGregor hinted at a presidential run, calling himself the “only logical choice” to replace President Michael D. Higgins. He criticized Ireland’s government and opposed the EU Migration Pact, vowing to block it as president. Read more here
In March 2025, McGregor used his White House visit to highlight Ireland’s political climate, posting on X that he’d oppose government policies and call for a general election if elected. His posts gained traction but faced skepticism from Irish politicians
A poll from early 2025 showed only 7% of Irish voters support him, making his presidential bid a long shot. He’s also eyeing a UFC return in 2026, possibly at a White House event, after rejoining the drug-testing pool. His focus remains on both politics and fighting.
