Can Conor McGregor Be a Good President? UFC Star Announces He’s Running for Irish Presidency
Conor McGregor has never shied away from the spotlight, but this time, the Irish MMA superstar isn’t talking about octagons or championships. Instead, he has set his sights on the highest office in Ireland, announcing his intention to run for the presidency in the upcoming October 24, 2025 election.
The news has shaken both the sporting and political world, as the former UFC double champion looks to swap fight gloves for politics. In a fiery Dublin speech, McGregor declared that the “time for real change is now,” urging people and local councillors to back his nomination before the September 24 deadline.
McGregor’s Message
His campaign is focused on handing power back to the people. McGregor has vowed to call for public referendums on major laws—especially the EU Migration Pact—rather than signing them off himself. He also highlighted issues like child homelessness and the decline of Irish tourism as key battles he wants to fight.
In his own words, he’s positioning himself as an outsider who will shake up the system, bringing the same fire and intensity that defined his fighting career.
The First Hurdle
Despite the bold promises, McGregor faces a huge obstacle before even making it to the ballot. Under Irish law, candidates must secure nominations from 20 Oireachtas members or four local councils. At present, he has none, and experts have described his chances of qualifying as “close to zero.”
To make matters worse, his controversial past—including legal troubles and a civil ruling against him in a 2018 sexual assault case—makes it unlikely that politicians will publicly back him. Government figures have already voiced skepticism, with Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien bluntly stating McGregor is “not fit” for the role.
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The Presidency’s True Role
Even if McGregor somehow made it through, his vision of a people-powered presidency faces another challenge: the position is largely ceremonial. While the president signs bills into law and represents Ireland on the global stage, real legislative power lies with the government. If a president refuses to sign, a commission steps in—and refusing repeatedly could even trigger impeachment.
This means McGregor’s promise to veto laws unless approved by the public referendum doesn’t align with the actual powers of the office.
Could He Really Be a Good President?
On one hand, McGregor’s star power, charisma, and ability to energize a crowd are undeniable. He would bring a level of public engagement the role hasn’t seen before, particularly among younger voters.
But on the other hand, his limited understanding of the office, history of controversies, and lack of political support create major hurdles. Add in the ceremonial nature of the presidency, and the reality is clear: McGregor’s presidency, if it ever happened, would be more symbolic than transformative.
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