Conor McGregor has called on his native Ireland to leave the European Union amid the introduction of new coronavirus restrictions.
The Irish star has returned home to Ireland as his recovery from a broken leg injury suffered in his UFC 264 against Dustin Poirier continues.
Tensions have raised over the emergence of the new Omicron coronavirus variant with several countries reacting by increasing their restrictions.
McGregor has taken to social media to react to news, as he wrote on Twitter : "It is time to talk Ireland leaving the European Union."
Strict new rules have been imposed in a bid to control any potential spread of the new variant according to 'very stark' health advice to the government.
This includes limiting the hospitality sector and home visits with bars and restaurants now limited to just six people on table service.
Nightclubs will also be closed until the new year, with masks and social distancing to be reintroduced across Ireland.
McGregor has been critical of the action of the Irish government in recent weeks on social media, going on several deleted crusades against the action of Prime Minister Michael Martin.
The UFC superstar was also goaded into responding by a political commentator on Twitter in which he explained why he instantly removes his social media posts to prevent the spread of "negativity".
"There is just no backing from me here anymore," McGregor wrote. "We will rise! Tonight’s address read like an advert to me. When Ireland stands. The world will know.
“We are almost three years into this. We have came together time and time again! Gone above and beyond what has been asked of us!
"Yet all we have gotten back is hypocritical address after hypocritical address! The audacity! I am ashamed of my nations government at this time.
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"My point stands. I am ashamed of those in government! Leo comment, disgraceful. I’m worried for our neglected hospitals and for our people.
"It is an abomination what is happening! It hurts me beyond belief. If you think I enjoy saying these things and want to keep them, i do not.
"Now do me a favour since you do absolutely f*** all else, and f*** off with your 'commentary'."
McGregor has been frequent to express his opinion on social media, but has faced criticism for fierce rants against the likes of bitter rival Khabib Nurmagomedov and Daniel Cormier.
His thoughts will now refocus on evoking a revival in the UFC lightweight division having lost three of his previous four bouts fighting on the promotion.
He is eyeing a return to competitive action next year and has returned to light boxing and conditioning training with the view to begin sparring in April 2022.
