Former UFC champion Conor McGregor has proposed that Ireland establish a national Bitcoin reserve. In a message shared on May 9, 2025, via X, he stated that such a move would empower “the people’s money.” McGregor is running as an independent candidate for the presidency and aims to focus on cryptocurrency policy.

McGregor’s Bitcoin Vision

In his blog, McGregor articulated the need for Ireland to maintain a strategic reserve of Bitcoin. He did not disclose the source of funding or the projected expenses, but emphasized that a reserve would restore financial power to ordinary citizens. He reiterated that “the roots of crypto are about empowering the people,” highlighting the foundational ethos of Bitcoin and decentralization.

The roots of crypto are about empowering the people.

A Bitcoin reserve for Ireland will return power to the people’s money.

I’ll be cohosting a space on Twitter to discuss the changes I envision.

Victory for Ireland!

— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) May 9, 2025

Engaging With Crypto Experts

Reports indicate that McGregor has reached out to industry professionals for collaboration. He mentioned Anthony Pompliano, the host of The Pomp Podcast, seeking his input. Additionally, he connected with David Bailey, a crypto consultant to former US President Donald Trump. McGregor encouraged them to “Message me and let’s talk about my space” and “David, reach out—let’s discuss your ideas!” He plans to host an X Spaces session to clarify his vision.

Political and Legal Hurdles

Ireland’s next presidential election is due by November 11, 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of President Michael D. Higgins’s tenure. Any plan to set up a Bitcoin reserve would need legislative backing and the support of the central bank. As a member of the European Union, Ireland’s monetary regulations align with the euro. An independent candidate from a minor party might struggle to form a coalition to support this initiative.

Moreover, McGregor is currently contesting a civil court ruling that found him guilty of sexual assault, and he has faced accusations of hate speech in the past. These matters could undermine his credibility with the electorate.

Irish political leaders have largely dismissed Conor McGregor’s candidacy for president

— Sky News (@SkyNews) March 30, 2025

Experience in Cryptocurrency

While McGregor does have some experience with crypto ventures, his past efforts have not been successful. In early April 2025, the Real World Gaming team organized a 28-hour presale of a token called REAL, aiming to raise at least $1 million. Instead, they gathered roughly $392,300 and refunded all contributors. This setback underscores the difficulty of rallying backing, even with a well-known name attached.

Future Steps and Perspective

McGregor has stated that he will provide additional details regarding his X Spaces session soon, although a specific date remains unannounced. It’s uncertain how many experts will respond positively to his outreach. Nations like the US, El Salvador, and Bhutan have initiated Bitcoin reserves, typically through top government officials.

A grassroots movement led by a single candidate would be quite unprecedented in Ireland. Ultimately, voters will determine whether they want a former fighter-turned-politician managing complex financial matters. For now, McGregor’s proposal is still in the conceptual phase, awaiting its moment on the political stage.

Featured image from Getty Images; chart from TradingView