The world has been waiting with bated breath for Conor McGregor‘s UFC return, but the former two-division champion has his sights set on a whole different arena. In an unexpected turn of events, the former UFC double champion has entered the political arena, stating his intention to become Ireland’s next president. But ever wondered how the MMA superstar developed this sudden interest in politics? Well, weirdly enough, we will have to thank COVID-19 for this one.
During lockdowns that kept him out of the cage, McGregor found himself watching news stories rather than fight tapes. What began as casual anger with pandemic limits quickly escalated into something more serious. He told Tucker Carlson during his latest interview, “It all kind of took a turn post-COVID. It all took a real turn post-COVID, and you could kind of see what was going on and what had gone on post-COVID—the crash, you know, and who our government is serving. You could kind of see that come to fruition then throughout the COVID era. And then I just became more invested in it, and that was it.”
The man who used to trash-talk opponents turned on Irish politicians, using his vast social media platform to criticize government overreach and failed policies. His supporters noticed a shift: the training camp updates had been replaced by fiery political commentary that occasionally also got him in trouble. However, this was more than just a keyboard warrior act. ‘The Notorious’ began meeting with grassroots activists and community leaders all around Ireland, especially in working-class districts like the one he grew up in. The stories he heard about housing shortages, healthcare issues, and economic anxiety struck a chord.
Bellator Dublin, 3 Arena, Dublin 25/2/2022 Conor McGregor arrives Conor McGregor arrives 25/2/2022 PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUKxIRLxFRAxNZL Copyright: x INPHO/BryanxKeanex INP26254
His presidential campaign, while lacking in traditional policy specifics, relies primarily on anti-establishment, “voice of the people” language that is appealing to a surprising number of Irish voters. Of course, the political establishment isn’t particularly welcoming. Critics dismiss McGregor as a celebrity dilettante preying on populist rage, while others point to his turbulent past as a disqualifying factor. However, underestimating ‘The Notorious’ has always been a mistake, as the same showman instincts that made him the UFC’s biggest draw are now being used on the campaign trail. And to make things more interesting, the Irishman has claimed to be a devout patriot, one who is willing to die for his country.
Conor McGregor claims he is willing to die for his country
After stunning many with his unexpected political ambitions, Conor McGregor has now gone even further. The man who once sold out arenas with words and knockouts is now discussing something much more serious—his life. His transition from warrior to political figure has not been solely about pointing fingers at the government. It’s also about displaying how much he cares about his home nation. In fact, ‘The Notorious’ recently made it clear how far he is willing to go.
When speaking with Tucker Carlson, Conor McGregor stated something that surprised everyone, including his own fans. “I love my country dearly. Nothing and no one could ever change that fact. I would give my life for my nation.” It was a straightforward statement from someone who believes what he is saying. The Irishman said that his motivation is not for fame or power. It’s about the experiences he hears on a daily basis—of individuals struggling with housing, healthcare, and feeling left behind. Those stories ignite a fire within him, and that’s what’s pushing him forward. “I hear about the struggles of people… It ignites a fire in me to stand up,” he said.
However, his family isn’t thrilled with this idea. Especially his mother, who wants him to leave everything behind—take the money, enjoy the peace, and forget all about his political ambitions. “Despite maybe the worries of my mother and people in my life,. They say, ‘Why? Why? Let’s go away. Let’s sail on the yacht. Let’s f—–g do something—excuse the language—let’s do something else.’ But I cannot,” he added. However, he simply cannot. Why? Well, that’s because McGregor is willing to fight for his country till the day he dies. If there is one thing we realized from all this, it’s that whether or not people agree with his politics, McGregor is unquestionably committed. But what do you think of his political ambitions? Let us know in the comments.
The post Ignoring UFC Return, Conor McGregor Reveals Touching Story Behind Life Changing Decision to Enter Irish Politics appeared first on EssentiallySports.
