Watch: Michael Healy-Rae comes to blows with Taoiseach in bizarre animated video

In the 20-second clip, posted on Healy-Rae’s X account, the two politicians showcase their martial arts skills as they come to blows, and battle it out on screen.

The general election has yet to be officially called, but it looks like the gloves are already off, and Michael Healy-Rae has come out swinging.

In an utterly bizarre turn of events, the Kerry TD has posted a baffling, seemingly AI generated video, of him "fighting" Taoiseach Simon Harris — Matrix style.

In the 20-second clip, posted on Healy-Rae’s X account, the two politicians showcase their martial arts skills as they come to blows, and battle it out on screen. During the bout, Healy-Rae can be seen sporting his famous flat cap, while Harris means business with no tie and his top button undone.

It is unclear who comes out on top, but Healy-Rae has used the video to accuse the Taoiseach of trying to "dodge democracy." The caption of the video, which was posted on Monday morning, reads: "Simon Harris trying to dodge democracy like I don't know what!"

In a low-blow, Mr Healy-Rae went on to say that "calling a snap election when it suits him and Fine Gael isn't exactly 'fair play' to the people of Ireland".

However, Healy-Rae is prepared to roll with the punches. He insisted that he will be ready to go toe-to-toe, "whether the election is called for next month or next year."

The battle video has gained some traction on social media, and at the time of writing, had racked up over 70,000 views. However, it has left some viewers scratching their heads.

"What the hell have I just watched?" asked one. "This is cringe," commented another.

The video is branded with a yellow MHR TV logo in the bottom right-hand corner, and one can only assume this stands for Michael Healy-Rae TV.

If so, we can’t help but wonder if there’ll be more fisticuffs in the pipeline. Perhaps a Michael and Danny tag team tournament? Now that would be one to watch.

On a more serious note, the Taoiseach’s back is against the ropes, as he looks set to call the general election before Christmas, with November 29 being the most likely date for the main event.

But Healy-Rae is a confident challenger. He has insinuated that he will go the distance as he accompanied the video with the hashtag #HealyRaeAllThe Way.