Conor McGregor continues to use his sizeable platform as a means to encourage people to follow the various restrictions that are being enacted, as a means to battle the coronavirus pandemic. In fact, more recently, the former UFC champ’s called on Ireland’s military to be brought in.

McGregor’s latest video statement

Recently McGregor released a video, in which he campaigned for a lockdown to be enacted in Ireland, in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. In a new video statement, however, the star made the following plea (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“We must abide by the legislation put forth tonight by our leaders,” McGregor said. “No further than two kilometers from home, no unessential travel, and full closure of nonessential business. Now more than ever we must abide by this, and I pray for the health and safety of our country that we love. The fate of our lives and the health of our loved ones depends on it.

“Tonight our defense forces have been mentioned as a possibility in assisting with up to 15,000 Gardai available. But only if necessary. However, it is necessary.”

“To President (Michael) Higgins, to all of our leaders: Close our airports,” McGregor said. “Utilize our defense forces. For the nation, abide by these measures impeccably. And prepare for five weeks of it. After that, we are free. Five weeks to freedom. We can do this. The countdown begins now.”

McGregor has been a very active voice in the fight against the pandemic. Could this also point to the star moving into politics down the line?

In terms of McGregor’s MMA career, the outspoken fighter is coming off a quick, stoppage win over Donald Cerrone in January. More recently there’s been speculation about the possibility of McGregor fighting Justin Gaethje some time this summer. Following McGregor’s win over Cerrone, Dana White said the plan was to have the star challenge the winner of Khabib Nurmagmomedov versus Tony Ferguson (currently booked for April 18th).

Coronavirus cases

As this is being written, there have been 2,615 cases of the coronavirus reported in Ireland. In the United States, over 132,000 people have contracted the virus. Worldwide, over 700,000 cases of the virus have been reported and over 30,000 people have died as a result of the pandemic.

Due to the various restrictions that have been passed to fight the virus, the UFC has postponed three shows now to date. White, however, has repeatedly insisted that the promotion will find a way to hold the April 18th, UFC 249 card. More recently, White said he has several locations picked out to host the event.

Share: 

Mentioned in this article:

More About: