Former Irish mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Conor McGregor has said he is dropping out of the nation's presidential election, despite what he says is a "malevolent political witch-hunt".

McGregor, who was found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman in a 2024 civil case, had first vowed to run for the presidency last year.

However, after discussions with his family, the former fighter announced on social media that he would be withdrawing his candidacy.

"While I will not contest this election, my commitment to Ireland does not end here," McGregor wrote on X.

"This campaign has sparked an important conversation about democracy in Ireland about who gets to stand, who gets to choose, and how we can ensure that the presidency truly belongs to the people.

"That conversation will not end

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