Conor McGregor Launches Online Tirade Against Irish President and Tánaiste

Former UFC champion Conor McGregor ignited a social media storm on March 18, 2026, with a series of scathing attacks directed at Irish President Catherine Connolly and Tánaiste Simon Harris. The outburst, posted on X, centered on immigration policy and perceived disrespect towards Irish culture and religion.

McGregor’s Criticism of President Connolly

McGregor labeled President Connolly a “Godless woman,” accusing her of disrespecting the religion of Irish people and misrepresenting events surrounding a protest involving the brother of Enoch Burke, Elijah Burke. The incident occurred in October while President Connolly was campaigning for re-election, where Elijah Burke disrupted an event and was subsequently removed by Gardaí. McGregor alleged that Connolly lied about the incident.

Response to President Connolly’s St. Patrick’s Day Message

The criticism followed President Connolly’s St. Patrick’s Day address, in which she drew parallels between the story of St. Patrick – who was himself an immigrant – and the need for compassion towards migrants today. According to the President’s message, “The story of Patrick’s life serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage of migrants, the invaluable contributions that they have made, and continue to make, to the countries they now call home, sometimes even in the face of great adversity.”

Immigration Concerns and the Ashling Murphy Case

McGregor used the President’s comments as a springboard to voice concerns about Ireland’s immigration policy. He referenced the 2022 murder of Ashling Murphy by Jozef Puška, arguing it highlighted problems with immigration.

Attack on Tánaiste Simon Harris

McGregor also targeted Tánaiste Simon Harris, branding him a “cancer to Ireland” and referring to Taoiseach Micheál Martin as a “worm.” This followed Harris’s earlier statement describing McGregor as “the exceptionally worst of Irish society.”

Previous Criticism and White House Visit

The online rant occurred after Tánaiste Harris criticized McGregor during a St. Patrick’s Day trip to London. McGregor had been the subject of speculation regarding a potential appearance at White House celebrations hosted by Donald Trump, having previously been pictured with Trump in the Oval Office in March 2025.