The MMA world is in shock after former UFC star Conor McGregor was found guilty in a rape case and ordered to pay a big fine. The plaintiff, Nikita Hand, has been overwhelmed by support as she bravely fought for justice.
Confronting a high-profile figure like McGregor took immense bravery. People view her victory as a powerful symbol of women’s rights and resilience. So, they are eager to learn more about the case and the strength Nikita showed throughout this legal session.
Who is Nikita Hand?
Before the incident, Nikita Hand was not a well-known figure. She was just a 35-year-old former hairdresser from Dublin. However, her life changed when she accused Conor McGregor of sexually assaulting her.
Obviously, she made a brave decision to fight for justice, but sadly, it affected her relationship and left her with PTSD. Nikita had to move out of her home and struggled financially, spending over 4,000 euros on medical treatments in the process.
Nikita Hand is now speaking outside court after winning her r*pe case against Conor McGregor
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) November 22, 2024
Conor McGregor will have to pay her $258,646 in damages
🎥 @Healyhack pic.twitter.com/imsfU0a9e6
What was the lawsuit about?
The lawsuit was about an incident on December 9, 2018, when Nikita Hand and Conor McGregor, along with McGregor’s friend James Lawrence, spent the night partying in a hotel. Hand accused McGregor of sexually assaulting her, which left her with terrible physical and emotional scars.
Nikita Hand has WON her case against Conor McGregor.
— Today FM 💛 (@TodayFM) November 22, 2024
She sued the MMA fighter for damages, claiming he raped her in a Dublin hotel in 2018.⁰She didn't win her case against the second named defendant, McGregor's friend, James Lawrence. pic.twitter.com/QZpX81nF2b
The ex-UFC star admitted to having sex with her but said they both agreed to it. However, the jury found McGregor guilty and did not hold his friend James Lawrence responsible.
What legal trouble could Conor McGregor face?
Following the trial, the judge ordered the 36-year-old to pay Nikita Hand over $250,000. However, McGregor is going to fight the result, which could make the court process take longer.
The case also raises an issue of whether criminal charges may be made, even if the Director of Public Prosecutions declined to prosecute since there was a lack of evidence.
What does this mean for Conor McGregor’s career?
Conor McGregor is currently preparing for his return to the UFC, with his next fight expected in late 2025. He’s passionate about returning to the Octagon and has been training hard to prepare. There were also rumors that he might begin a career in the WWE.
However, the issue lies in his recent loss in the civil assault case against Nikita Hand. The decision in this case has ruined his public image, potentially harming his future.
Conor McGregor has been found guilty in a civil case of rape on a woman in the Beacon Hotel in Dublin.
— Just Talk Wrestling (@JustTalkWrestle) November 22, 2024
He has been ordered to pay €248,000 in damages.
The former UFC star had been linked with a potential WWE run in the future, I would imagine that kills any hope of that pic.twitter.com/UzJ3y0Wyjf
As a former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion, McGregor’s reputation has taken a significant hit. His ongoing legal problems and the negative press surrounding the case could limit his future chances in the sport and make it harder for him to get sponsorships and new endorsements.