Conor McGregor, the Irish mixed martial arts (MMA) star, has been found liable for sexually assaulting Nikita Hand in a hotel in Dublin in December 2018. The Ireland’s High Court jury ordered McGregor to pay €248,603 (about $257,000) in damages.
This case has attracted a lot of attention because of McGregor’s fame and the serious nature of the allegations.
Details of the Incident
The assault happened after a Christmas party on December 8, 2018. Ms. Hand stated that she and a friend met McGregor at the party and that he later drove them to a penthouse suite at the Beacon Hotel in Dublin.
During the night, they consumed alcohol and drugs. Ms. Hand alleged that McGregor took her to a bedroom, where he used a chokehold on her and sexually assaulted her. She reported that she feared for her life during the attack.
Ms. Hand testified that she had extensive bruising on her hands, wrists, and neck, which medical professionals documented the next day. A doctor noted significant injuries and ordered photographs to be taken.
McGregor denied the allegations, claiming their encounter was consensual. His legal team argued that Ms. Hand made up the story and pointed to surveillance footage showing her leaving the hotel with McGregor and appearing “happy.” However, after six hours of discussions, the jury decided in favor of Ms. Hand.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
The two-week civil trial included emotional testimonies from both sides. Ms Hand’s lawyers said McGregor showed “appalling behaviour” and called him a “devious coward.” McGregor’s defence team claimed Ms Hand had created “false memories” and mentioned that prosecutors did not pursue criminal charges due to lack of evidence.
The jury, made up of eight women and four men, awarded Ms. Hand €248,603 in damages for her injuries and medical expenses related to her mental health struggles after the incident.
Impact on Both Parties
Ms. Hand expressed relief after the verdict and said that justice was served. She encouraged other survivors of sexual assault to speak out and shared how the case affected her life, including her inability to work due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
McGregor, 36, left the courtroom without commenting but later said he plans to appeal the decision. He expressed disappointment with the outcome and claimed that not all evidence was shown in court.
Broader Implications
This case is crucial for McGregor’s career and personal life. Once celebrated as one of MMA’s top athletes—earning $180 million in 2021 as Forbes’ highest-paid athlete—he now faces damage to his reputation and financial penalties.
The ruling might also lead Irish prosecutors to reconsider their earlier decision not to charge him criminally.
For Ms. Hand, this verdict is a hard-fought win after years of legal battles and public scrutiny. Her case highlights the need to hold powerful people accountable for their actions, no matter their status.