Former UFC champion Conor McGregor found liable for sexual assault by civil jury in Ireland

A woman who accused mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor of brutally raping and battering her in a Dublin hotel penthouse was awarded nearly 250,000 Euros ($257,000 US) by a civil court jury in Ireland. The incident took place on December 9, 2018, after a night of partying, leaving the woman heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

McGregor, visibly shaken, received the verdict from a jury of eight women and four men in the High Court in Dublin. He did not make any comments as he left the court amidst a flurry of cameras. McGregor maintained his innocence, testifying that the encounter was consensual and that the woman fabricated the allegations.

The woman, her voice trembling, read a statement outside the courthouse expressing her gratitude for the support she received from her family, partner, friends, and online supporters, especially her daughter. She emphasized the importance of standing up for oneself in the face of adversity and seeking justice.

Her lawyer argued that McGregor, angered by a previous loss in Las Vegas, took out his frustrations on the woman. The woman detailed the harrowing experience of McGregor putting her in a chokehold and threatening her life during the assault. The paramedic who examined her attested to the severity of her injuries, noting intense bruising.

Despite the civil court ruling in favor of the woman, criminal charges were not pursued due to insufficient evidence. McGregor adamantly denied the allegations, claiming that the encounter was consensual and refuting the woman’s account of events. His defense team urged jurors to remain impartial and not let personal biases affect their judgment.

Surveillance footage presented in court showed the woman kissing McGregor’s arm and appearing content after leaving the hotel room, contradicting her claims of coercion. McGregor defended his actions, stating that he had been forthcoming with the police during questioning.

The woman’s courageous stance in seeking justice serves as a reminder that no one is above accountability for their actions, regardless of their status or influence. The verdict underscores the importance of standing up against injustice and seeking closure in the face of adversity.