After visiting Donald Trump, former UFC star Conor McGregor announces his desire to run for president of Ireland.

McGregor Sets Sights on Presidency

"Ireland, the choice is yours, and it's simple. Vote for me as president, and together we will save Ireland," the 36-year-old former champion declared on social media.

The Irish presidential election, a largely ceremonial position, will be held on November 15.

To qualify as a candidate, McGregor would need the backing of 20 members of Parliament or four municipal authorities — a challenging feat considering his legal history. In November, he was ordered to pay €248,000 in a civil case to a woman who accused him of assault in 2018. His lawyer announced on Friday that they will appeal the verdict in a Dublin court.

"The future of Ireland is with me as president. Every Irish citizen has a voice and a vote on their future," McGregor stated. His comments follow a recent visit to the White House, where former U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed him for St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

During a press conference, the former UFC champion reiterated his stance against illegal immigration, warning that Ireland risks "losing its identity." Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin condemned McGregor's remarks as "false" and not representative of "the spirit of St. Patrick nor the views of the Irish people."