Conor McGregor’s political ambitions are no secret anymore. The former UFC champion appears more serious than ever about a future run for the Irish presidency, even if critics aren’t taking him seriously.
Derek Brunson Sounds Off on Conor McGregor’s Political Aspirations
McGregor recently joined a viral trend, posting an AI-generated action figure version of himself as the “President of Ireland” on social media. Alongside the image, he wrote, “It’s coming. Stay ready, Ireland 🇮🇪,” fueling more speculation about his intentions.
But not everyone thinks it’s a good idea. Former UFC middleweight contender Derek Brunson responded to the post with a cheeky warning.
“Haha, you don’t need those political problems in your life 😂”
Brunson’s jab might not be just light-hearted trolling. McGregor is currently appealing a verdict in a civil rape case involving Nikita Hand. He was found liable for an alleged assault dating back to 2018 in a Dublin hotel. A jury awarded Hand over €248,000 in damages, and McGregor was also ordered to pay her legal fees.
Beyond the courtroom, McGregor’s fighting future remains unclear. His long-awaited UFC return — initially targeted for UFC 303 against Michael Chandler — was canceled due to a toe injury. The cancellation was another blow to fans who’ve waited years to see the Irish star back in action.
McGregor’s UFC Return Tied to Stadium Demand
While his political ambitions continue making headlines, McGregor hasn’t ruled out a return to the Octagon. In fact, he’s teasing a comeback — but with one big condition.
McGregor hasn’t fought since breaking his leg in a bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021. Although he was scheduled to return at UFC 303, the toe injury put that on hold.
Despite speculation about a political pivot, McGregor made waves on X this week with an update on his fighting status.
“I’ll only come back to a stadium.”
The message came after McGregor watched WWE’s WrestleMania event at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Inspired by the spectacle, he now wants his return to happen in a massive venue — something UFC president Dana White has long resisted.
Some fans have thrown out a possible fight against rising British star Paddy Pimblett at London’s Wembley Stadium. Pimblett’s recent win over Chandler at UFC 314 has fueled talk of a future clash with McGregor.
Still, McGregor seems locked in on Chandler as his preferred opponent.
“IRON MIKE CHANDLER. Unfinished business,” McGregor posted in a follow-up tweet.
Chandler, who’s lost three straight fights, replied, “Unfinished Business Loading….”
Though a 2025 return seems unlikely right now, McGregor vs. Chandler remains a potential marquee fight if UFC gives the green light for a stadium show. Whether his next chapter is in the Octagon or at Áras an Uachtaráin, McGregor isn’t staying quiet.