Artem Lobov weighs in on Conor McGregor’s presidential bid and his own MMA return

Artem Lobov, longtime friend and former training partner of Conor McGregor, has never shied away from speaking candidly about “The Notorious.”

In a recent PFL media call with Independent Media, The Ireland-based Russian reflected on McGregor’s surprising foray into politics, his decision to withdraw from Ireland’s presidential race, and what it reveals about both McGregor’s mindset and the country’s political climate.

For Lobov, McGregor’s presidential ambitions weren’t exactly a shock.

“We always spoke about that,” he recalled, referencing past conversations that even led to high-level introductions in the political world — including a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“You want to establish some contacts in politics… Vladimir Putin is one of the main figures in the world. So we always spoke about that.”

Lobov Supports McGregor’s Withdrawal: “Conor Needs to Get His Ducks in a Row”

But when asked about McGregor’s sudden withdrawal from the race, which came just a day after making headlines across Ireland, Lobov defended his former teammate’s choice.

“I support the decision to withdraw,” Lobov said. “I don’t think Conor is in the right space right now, not in the right mindset to run for president. He has to get his ducks in a row first.”

Lobov contrasted today’s McGregor with the fighter he once knew — the relentless competitor who pushed through torn ligaments in both knees while chasing UFC gold.

“That’s the Conor I know, and that’s the Conor people believe would make a good president. And I agree. That Conor would make a great president and would address the issues Ireland is facing. But right now, he needs to fix a lot of things first.”

Ireland’s Politics Dominated by Housing, Healthcare, Immigration, and Cost of Living Debates

Ireland’s politics have been dominated in recent years by debates over housing, healthcare, immigration, and the rising cost of living — issues McGregor often comments on through social media. His populist tone resonates with many frustrated voters, particularly younger demographics who admire his journey from a Dublin plumber’s apprentice to global superstar.

Yet critics argue that McGregor’s controversies — from legal troubles to public outbursts — undermine Ireland’s credibility on the world stage. For them, his withdrawal proved that while McGregor may be Ireland’s most famous export, he’s not ready for the responsibilities of high office.

Still, McGregor’s popularity and financial success are undeniable. His whiskey brand, Proper No. Twelve, alongside other business ventures, has made him one of the wealthiest athletes alive. Supporters point to his success story as proof of the ambition and grit that could one day translate into politics.

Lobov’s Comeback: A Legacy Fight Against Zubaira Tukhugov at PFL Champions Series

While McGregor’s political future remains uncertain, Lobov is focused on his own comeback. His upcoming fight against Dagestan’s Zubaira Tukhugov carries deep history, rooted in the infamous McGregor–Khabib Nurmagomedov rivalry that spilled far beyond the octagon at UFC 229 in 2018.

“Khabib was the first one who started going at Conor,” Lobov explained. “Anytime we saw each other, it was always friendly. But at one point, to promote himself, he decided to go after Conor. For me, there was no way I could just let those words slide — I’ve always got my brother’s back no matter what.”

That loyalty helped fuel years of tension between Lobov and Tukhugov, which will finally come to a head at the Professional Fighters League’s Champions Series: Road to Dubai — The Rematch on October 3rd.

For Lobov, this fight represents more than a comeback; it’s a chance to remind the world who he is.

“When I fight, the world watches. And now it’s me and Zubaira — and the world will be watching.”

In the end, Lobov managed to highlight two very different battles: Conor McGregor’s fight for legitimacy in Irish politics, and his own long-awaited return to mixed martial arts.

On McGregor, Lobov is both critical and hopeful — acknowledging flaws while insisting the “right Conor” could indeed lead a nation. On his own comeback, however, he is resolute: this fight with Tukhugov isn’t about words anymore. It’s about legacy, loyalty, and settling a rivalry years in the making.

IOL Sport