In a heartfelt tribute to the late Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor, MMA superstar Conor McGregor expressed his sorrow on Twitter. The tweet came in response to a video shared by MMA Orbit, showcasing O’Connor’s iconic live performance of “The Foggy Dew” during McGregor’s walkout for his UFC 189 bout against Chad Mendes back in 2015.
Legendary Irish singer Sinead O’Connor has passed away at the age of 56 🇮🇪❤️
Never forget when she sang Conor McGregor out as he made the walk for his UFC 189 fight with Chad Mendes 🎵🎶
— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) July 26, 2023
McGregor, known for regularly using the song for his fight entrances, acknowledged the significance of this particular rendition performed by O’Connor, which many consider to be “the most iconic walkout in UFC history,” as noted by the UK Independent.
“The Foggy Dew,” penned by Father Charles O’Neill, holds historical significance as it revolves around the 1916 Easter Rising and encourages Irishmen to fight for Ireland’s cause rather than join the British forces during World War I, as recounted by Irish Central.
The bond between McGregor and O’Connor was evident in the photos shared in the tweet. One captured them posing together, while the other depicted McGregor raising his hands to her before the fight, draped in an Irish flag.
In his heartfelt message, McGregor paid tribute to the late artist, referring to her as having “the voice of an Angel.” He mourned her loss and described her as one of Ireland’s absolute finest, emphasizing that her music would continue to inspire generations. McGregor expressed his belief that O’Connor was now at peace, reunited with her son.
As the fight unfolded, O’Connor’s powerful presence seemed to fuel McGregor’s determination, leading him to victory with a second-round TKO.
The news of O’Connor’s passing shook the world, leaving many in sorrow. Although the cause of death has not been disclosed, London police confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding it.
In a statement issued by O’Connor’s family, they confirmed her passing and requested privacy during this difficult time, reflecting the profound impact she had on their lives and the lives of her friends and fans.
Sinéad O’Connor’s legacy as an iconic artist and her contribution to inspiring others through her music will undoubtedly live on, forever remembered by those whose lives she touched. The MMA community mourns the loss of a dear friend and fellow artist as they bid farewell to a remarkable talent.