Conor McGregor issues warning to Ireland as he meets Donald Trump at White House
Conor McGregor has met with former US President Donald Trump at the White House as he warned the people of Ireland about the country losing its "Irish-ness"
UFC icon Conor McGregor is set to have what he describes as the "most important meeting" of Ireland's future with President Donald Trump at the White House.
McGregor hasn't shied away from expressing his opinions since diving into politics in recent years, especially during his absence from mixed martial arts competition due to a severe leg injury.
At a White House press briefing, McGregor made his standpoint crystal clear, stressing the urgency of Ireland's situation. "Ireland is at the cusp of potentially losing its Irish-ness," he declared. "I'm here to raise the issues the people of Ireland face," adding that it would be a revelation for the Irish, having never had their struggles voiced on such an influential platform.
According to McGregor, the Irish government has long ignored the populace, showing neither action nor accountability. He didn't hide his view of operational inefficiencies and misplaced priorities, lamenting money diverted to foreign affairs as opposed to domestic needs, and spotlighting illegal immigration as a critical problem transforming rural communities.
He claimed: "The illegal immigration racket is running ravage on the country. There are rural towns in Ireland that have been overrun in one swoop. That have become a minority in one swoop. So, issues need to be addressed. And the 40 million Irish Americans, as I said, need to hear this. Because if not, there will be no place to come home and visit."
McGregor signaled his arrival in the capital, where a significant discussion with President Trump awaits him on Monday. Taking to X, the celebrated MMA champion announced to his followers: "I land shortly in Washington for the most important meeting of my country's future. I am beyond ready. The world will hear Ireland's call."
This high-profile encounter comes in the wake of President Trump expressing his fondness for McGregor, whom he commended as his favorite Irish figure globally. During an interaction with Taoiseach Michael Martin, Trump lauded McGregor, saying: "He's got the best tattoos I've ever seen. Conor's great... Ireland's always had a lot of good fighters... because they're tough people. Grateful for the words, McGregor reciprocated on X: "Thank you President Trump!".