Home
UFC star Conor McGregor is facing a major legal challenge just as he prepares for a run in Ireland's presidential election, which must take place by November 15, 2025. McGregor's legal team has appealed a court ruling that ordered him to pay damages to a woman who accused him of rape, raising questions about the impact of the case on his political ambitions.
Legal Battle Intensifies
Lawyers representing Conor McGregor initiated an appeal on Friday, March 22, after a woman named Nikita Hand secured a civil court victory against the fighter. She alleged that McGregor had "brutally raped and battered" her at a Dublin hotel in 2018. Despite McGregor's claims that their encounter was consensual, the court awarded Hand €248,603 ($258,559) in damages in November 2024.
During the appeal hearing at Dublin’s Court of Appeal, McGregor's lawyers requested permission to present fresh evidence, with the case set to return to court on May 2, 2025.
McGregor’s Presidential Bid Gains Traction
Undeterred by his legal troubles, McGregor has announced his intention to contest Ireland’s presidential election. In a social media post on March 21, McGregor urged his supporters:
"Ireland, the choice is yours, and it is an easy one. Vote for me as your President and we will SAVE IRELAND TOGETHER!"
Political Momentum and Controversy
McGregor’s political ambitions gained momentum following his high-profile Saint Patrick's Day visit to Washington, D.C. He was photographed alongside former US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, wearing a green "Make Ireland Great Again" cap. Trump, who previously referred to McGregor as his "favourite Irishman," appeared to signal his endorsement during the meeting.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk, an outspoken supporter of anti-immigration policies in Europe, was also present at the event. Musk had previously expressed support for McGregor’s potential presidential bid, further amplifying the mixed martial arts star’s profile.
McGregor’s Controversial Views on Immigration
McGregor had made the trip to criticize Ireland's immigration policies, characterizing it as an "illegal immigration racket." Responses came swiftly with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin distancing himself from McGregor's comments.
Issues Clouding McGregor's Political Bid
Political experts lend credence to the idea that McGregor has little hope of being nominated, given his rise in public favor. Interviewed about the prospective candidates, Gail McElroy, a professor in politics at Trinity College Dublin, said that the nomination process-which in effect means support from 20 members of parliament or four local authorities-is a real barrier to McGregor because of his controversial past.
What Will Come of It
McGregor is now preparing for his appeal on May 2, and amidst all the elections coming forth, he would have to struggle a lot. While the larger-than-life personality and global significance have guaranteed him media attention, his legal troubles and political challenges could restrict his ability to convert fame into success at the polls.
