XRP Enters Spotlight as McGregor Challenges Crypto Reserve Choices

XRP has found itself at the center of attention following comments from UFC icon Conor McGregor, who questioned its inclusion in the U.S. crypto reserve. His remarks come amid debate about which digital assets are truly decentralized.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), McGregor expressed surprise over the U.S. government’s decision to include XRP, Cardano, and Solana in its national crypto holdings. He was responding to President Donald Trump’s March 2025 announcement, which revealed that the reserve would consist of Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Cardano, and Solana. The move has sparked fresh conversations about decentralization and institutional adoption.

Bitcoin and Ethereum maxis argued that only those two coins are decentralized enough to warrant federal reserve status. Supporters of these assets quickly chimed in after McGregor’s post, urging him to back Bitcoin exclusively and steer clear of what they described as more centralized alternatives like XRP and Cardano. Bitcoin Magazine was among those advocating for Bitcoin-only strategies.

However, Cardano enthusiasts pushed back, highlighting recent advancements in on-chain governance that bolster its decentralization credentials. The debate reflects ongoing tensions within the digital asset space as regulators and political leaders make choices that could shape the industry’s future.

This isn’t McGregor’s first appearance in the crypto spotlight. Since early May 2025, he’s leveraged his platform to promote Bitcoin adoption in Ireland. As an independent candidate in Ireland’s upcoming presidential election, McGregor has dubbed Bitcoin “people’s money” and proposes it as a cornerstone for a transparent and sovereign monetary strategy.

He has hosted several audio discussions through X Spaces to rally support and encourage dialogue. Notable participants have included Anthony Pompliano, David Bailey, and Max Keiser. McGregor envisions a future where Ireland leads Europe in crypto adoption, using digital assets to gain financial independence and resist external economic pressures.

His views mirror those gaining steam across the European Union. The Czech Republic is currently reviewing plans to commit up to 5% of its national reserves to Bitcoin. The country’s central bank governor, Aleš Michl, broadly supports the proposal, as outlined in a January 2025 report. Similarly, in Poland, presidential hopeful Sławomir Mentzen has promised to introduce a Bitcoin reserve strategy if elected. In Germany, former finance minister Christian Lindner has also expressed support for crypto-focused financial policies.

Globally, the momentum continues. Russian officials have spoken about building a Bitcoin reserve to protect against economic sanctions and inflation. Brazil’s legislature is evaluating a bill that could lead to the creation of a Sovereign Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Meanwhile, Japan is treading carefully, with decision-makers wary of volatility despite active discussions around adoption.

Back in the United States, Trump’s executive order from March confirmed XRP’s inclusion in the reserve—alongside the primary goal of accumulating Bitcoin. His plan aims to fund the reserve using recovered digital assets. Senator Cynthia Lummis continues to push forward the BITCOIN Act, which lays out an ambitious goal to secure one million BTC over five years.

El Salvador remains the poster child of national crypto investment. The country currently holds over 6,000 BTC and continues to champion Bitcoin’s role under President Nayib Bukele. He has extended an invitation to McGregor for a diplomatic meeting, where the two are expected to discuss El Salvador’s road map and how those lessons could shape Ireland’s strategy.

Nevertheless, bringing digital assets into the monetary systems of EU nations comes with regulatory challenges. The European Central Bank (ECB) has taken a firm stance against integrating Bitcoin into its reserve portfolio. ECB President Christine Lagarde has spoken out clearly, suggesting digital assets do not meet the required stability and trust benchmarks for central banking.

McGregor’s interest in digital currencies dates back several years. In 2021, he collaborated with Dapper Labs for an NFT collection on the Flow blockchain, delivering UFC-themed digital memorabilia. His involvement extended to brand partnerships in 2022 with XTB and Tiger.Trade. The latter was later scrutinized for its indirect ties to the defunct FTX exchange.

In April 2025, McGregor attempted to launch a meme coin called “REAL” through a sealed-bid auction. Despite the hype, the initiative only raised $392,000—well short of its $1 million target. The team refunded all participants and promised to relaunch with stronger engagement and transparency mechanisms.

Related: Expert Advice: Sell XRP If You’re Confused

While his crypto journey has faced hurdles, McGregor’s evolving presence reflects a growing trend of public figures influencing the global digital asset landscape. As the discussion around XRP and other altcoins intensifies, their role in governmental strategies could define the next stage of adoption.