Conor McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion turned entrepreneur, has made a dual play into both business expansion and politics this week.
McGregor announced that Donald Trump Jr will join his company, MMA.Inc in a strategic advisory role intended to enhance the sport’s global footprint, while separately launching an unconventional bid for the Presidency of Ireland.
Business Arrangements
Trump Jr will leverage his international business connections to support small gyms and coaches within MMA.INc network. McGregor hailed Trump Jr. as “a globally recognized business leader” whose involvement signifies a significant step toward commercialising MMA beyond league arenas and enhancing its grassroots ecosystem.
The Times of India
Political Agenda
McGregor confirmed his candidacy for the October 2025 Irish presidential election, vowing to address issues such as child homelessness. However, the campaign has already attracted controversy, drawing a damning reaction from Irish Muslim community leader Dr Umar Al-Qadri, who called the move “disgraceful” and ill-suited to national values, particularly following a civil ruling requiring McGregor to pay significant damages in an assault case.
Despite the backlash, McGregor has persisted, gaining unexpected support from tech mogul Elon Musk, who publicly backed his candidacy and extended support via social media and a FaceTime discussion, as McGregor navigates eligibility hurdles around nomination requirements.
These developments suggest McGregor is shifting his brand from combative sport into high-stakes business and political arenas.
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