Conor McGregor has led the tributes for Irish rockstar Christy Dignam after the Aslan frontman passed away following a lengthy illness that saw him hospitalised earlier this year.
McGregor and Dignam are both from Dublin and are beloved celebrities in their communities for their involvement in fighting and music respectively. The musician is from Finglas and was the lead singer of the chart-topping band until being put under palliative care last January, before spending the last few months at home under the care of his family.
And the UFC legend has taken to social media to pay tribute to his fellow Dubliner, leading the charge among other major names from Irish culture and sport. Dignam's band's biggest hit was the 1993 single Crazy World, although they topped the charts multiple more times in their native country.
"RIP Christy Dignam," McGregor wrote in a Twitter post, which was viewed just under half-a-million times within three hours. He was joined by hundreds more commenters, with even the President of Ireland Michael D Higgins making a statement about the musicians passing.
Dignam's daughter Kiera wrote on social media of her father's passing: "On behalf of my family, it is with a broken heart that we convey the news of my father’s passing, Christy Dignam. Dad peacefully left us where he wanted to, at home today 4pm Tuesday, June 13th 2023, after a courageously long-fought battle, surrounded by his family.
"We ask that you honour our family's need for privacy during this immensely painful period. Let us all hold him in our hearts and cherish the remarkable life of a talented singer, great story teller and amazing person. We thank you so much for your love and support shown to us. Kathryn, Kiera, Darren, Cian, Ava, Jake and our extended family."
His band made a statement of their own shortly after, writing: "We are beyond devastated to have lost not just our band member, but our friend, Christy, that we have had so many many years of sharing our lives with. The band and Christy's family, ask for you to respect their privacy at this time."
