UFC icon Conor McGregor was found liable in a civil assault case in Ireland. The case arose from a sexual misconduct accusation made by Nikita Ní Lamhain, against McGregor following a Christmas party in 2018.
However, "The Notorious" said that what happened was consensual.
The Allegations and Verdict
According to TMZ, Ní Lamhain claimed that McGregor had forced her to engage in a series of non-consensual acts in a hotel penthouse suite after the event. She also accused another man, James Lawrence, of assault afterward, but Lawrence was acquitted of all charges, and the jury delivered a guilty verdict against McGregor in relation to Ní Lamhain's complaint.
The damage awarded by the jury was approximately $250,000, and aggravated or exemplary damages were denied.
McGregor still insisted that the encounter was consensual and was disappointed at the verdict, as he said, "The judge's instruction and the modest award given was for assault, there was not an award for aggravated or exemplary damages. I am disappointed that the jury did not hear all the evidence that the DPP reviewed."
McGregor Remains Silent in the Public
McGregor was present at the court with his longtime partner, Dee Devlin. The fighter also did not discuss the case in public after the verdict amidst surrounding media.
BREAKING: No comment from Conor McGregor as he leaves court to a media flurry, pic.twitter.com/eYEsferlY5
— Paul Healy (@Healyhack) November 22, 2024
Ní Lamhain, on the other hand, was grateful for the support she received and delivered an emotional statement outside the courthouse.
BREAKING: Nikita Hand speaks outside court. pic.twitter.com/H1K4eit8Ug
— Paul Healy (@Healyhack) November 22, 2024
Will This Affect McGregor's Career?
The ruling has set the conflict on fire, especially as McGregor is still one of the best-known figures in combat sports. Legal analysts believe the case accentuates the importance of accountability, even for high-profile athletes.
The jury found Conor McGregor liable for assault in a high-profile civil case, awarding $250K in damages while clearing co-defendant James Lawrence of allegations.
While his career is hanging by a thread, the Washington Post reports that McGregor could fight in late 2025. UFC President Dana White confirmed this.
Related Article: Conor McGregor Faces Accuser in Explosive Legal Battle Over Alleged Sexual Assault
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