Internet reports that former UFC champion Conor McGregor recently proposed a plan to create a national-level Bitcoin reserve during his Irish presidential campaign, claiming that the move would "return power to the people." He said he would elaborate on the strategic concept at the upcoming X Spaces and invited Bitcoin community leaders to discuss the details, including "The Pomp Podcast" host Anthony Pompliano and Trump crypto consultant David Bailey have responded. McGregor announced in late March 2025 that he would run as an independent candidate, focusing on anti-immigration and anti-crime issues. If he ultimately wins, it will hopefully allow Ireland to join the ranks of countries such as the United States, El Salvador and Bhutan in setting up national bitcoin reserves. However, McGregor has also recently been controversial because of his conviction in a civil sexual assault case (appealed) and his involvement in a hate speech investigation. In addition, the pre-sale of the REAL token project it supported failed and only raised US$390,000, which was below the minimum threshold of US$1 million. Full refunds have been provided to all investors.