MMA Fighter's Palestine Protest After Victory Sparks Global Debate

Rome, Italy – May 31, 2025 witnessed an unexpected political statement at the Cage Warriors 189 MMA event. Irish fighter Paddy McCorry, victorious over Israeli opponent Shuki Farage, used his post-fight celebration to express his support for Palestine. Waving a Palestinian flag, McCorry chanted "Free Palestine" directly in front of his defeated opponent. The video quickly went viral, generating significant discussion on social media. "It was a powerful moment," stated one viewer on Twitter. The incident highlights the intersection of sports and politics, and McCorry's actions sparked debate about the role of athletes in expressing their political beliefs on an international stage. While some praised McCorry's courage, others criticized the display as inappropriate for a sporting event. Regardless, McCorry's actions have undoubtedly brought attention to the Palestinian cause.