The 28-year-old professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter has been offered a small role on the HBO hit fantasy drama, and will join the cast in time for start of season seven.
The news was announced by Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) President Dana White during an appearance on FOX Sports Live earlier this week.
He said: “I knew that a few months ago that they were interested in putting him in the show. And I’m glad he did it. It’ll be great. Yeah, the show’s huge, it’s awesome and I’m excited for him.”
The casting choice has left fans of both Conor and the show with tongues wagging as speculation circles about the kind of role the UFC star will play in the production.
‘Game of Thrones’ fan website Watchers on the Wall – which is known for having insights into the show – reported that Conor would be portraying a member of Euron Greyjoy’s crew on the ship Silence, and won’t have any lines as all the shipmates have had their tongues removed.
The website reported: “Conor McGregor will be playing a pirate belonging to Euron Greyjoy’s crew, on the ship Silence. The part is a fairly small one, a cameo, so fans who are worried about his acting ability, don’t sweat it. There is no speaking involved with this part, and it’s definitely a short-term gig.”
Conor’s role in the programme comes as he is known to be a close friend of Hafpor Julius Bjornsson – the Icelandic professional strongman who plays The Mountain – sparking speculation for a fight scene between the two.