In an unexpected revelation about his admiration for mixed martial arts, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his appreciation for Conor McGregor, specifically praising the fighter’s body art. “He’s got the best tattoos I’ve ever seen,” Trump remarked during a recorded conversation.
The comment comes at a time when McGregor’s public image has seen a significant shift, particularly in his homeland of Ireland. The Dublin native, who once commanded unwavering support from his countrymen, recently experienced an unwelcoming reception at a Limp Bizkit concert in his hometown, where the crowd responded with more boos than cheers during his stage appearance.
McGregor’s popularity has notably declined, especially following a November 2024 civil case involving Nikita Hand at a Dublin hotel in 2018, resulting in a court-ordered payment of approximately $270,000 in damages. The verdict triggered widespread public outcry across Ireland, leading various establishments to distance themselves from the former champion.
A prominent gym in Galway removed a mural that had been displayed since 2017, which depicted McGregor’s iconic moment from UFC 194. Workers were seen covering the artwork with white paint, accompanied by the caption, “The double champ does in fact not do what he wants.”
“I think he ruined expectations at the end of his career,” one fan commented on social media. Another added, “I mean he’s spent the last several years spiraling out of control in front of everyone in the world. People are over him and his ridiculous behavior.”
Despite the controversy surrounding McGregor, Trump’s appreciation appears focused solely on the aesthetic aspect of McGregor’s tattoos, while also praising Irish athletes in general: “You have a lot of great Irish fighters, actually. You know why? Because they’re tough people. They’re smart people and they’re passionate people.”
Proper 12, McGregor’s signature brand, has also taken steps back, stating they would “not plan to use Mr. McGregor’s name and likeness in the marketing of the brand” anymore.
