Mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor met with Donald Trump in the Oval Office during a St. Patrick’s Day visit to Washington D.C., where he voiced concerns about what he called Ireland’s “illegal immigration racket.” The 36-year-old athlete appeared in the White House briefing room prior to the meeting and described his visit as an opportunity to address issues faced by the Irish people.
McGregor stated, “What is going on in Ireland is a travesty. Our government is the government of zero action with zero accountability.” He warned that Ireland might be on the brink of losing its distinct identity due to ongoing immigration issues.
“Ireland and America, we are siblings. We consider America our big sibling,” McGregor said. “It’s important for Ireland to be a peaceful, prosperous country for 40 million Irish Americans to have a place to visit and reconnect with their roots.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who accompanied McGregor in the briefing room, commended him as an ideal guest for St. Patrick’s Day. Trump previously referred to McGregor as his favorite Irish person due in part to his tattoos.
However, Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin and Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris criticized the meeting. Martin stated on social media that McGregor’s comments did not reflect the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day or the views of the Irish people. Harris emphasized that McGregor does not represent Ireland and lacks any mandate to speak on behalf of its citizens.
In response to Martin’s remarks, McGregor expressed his discontent, saying, “Shame on him for saying that, speaking down on an Irish man.” He argued that the Irish government has failed its people, referencing various issues he believes are being mishandled.
Trump’s support for the Ultimate Fighting Championship, where McGregor gained fame, is well-documented, with Trump having attended UFC events during his 2024 presidential campaign.
The meeting came amidst controversy surrounding McGregor, who faced allegations and legal issues, including a civil case in which he was found liable for assaulting a woman, resulting in a substantial award. Following the verdict, several retailers, including Tesco, ceased selling products associated with him.
McGregor is appealing the outcome of the civil case and has a history of other legal troubles, including a guilty plea for assaulting a man in a Dublin pub. His social media activity has also drawn scrutiny, with reports indicating that Irish police were investigating him for alleged incitement to hatred related to the 2023 Dublin riots.
Known as “The Notorious,” McGregor gained worldwide fame for winning several UFC championships, but his controversial public persona continues to attract criticism within Ireland.
Credit: Sky News
