Mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor must pay 250,000 euros (about $257,000 USD) following a civil court jury’s verdict in Dublin, Ireland. The jury found McGregor liable Friday, Nov. 22, for assaulting a woman in a hotel room in December 2018.
The woman, who has remained anonymous, claimed McGregor raped and battered her after a night of partying. She said the attack left her with severe bruising and post-traumatic stress disorder.
BBC News reports a paramedic who examined the woman the next day testified that her injuries were some of the worst bruising she had ever seen.
Jury deliberation and McGregor’s response
According to The Associated Press, the jury deliberated for six hours and McGregor shook his head in court as they read their verdict. The fighter denied all allegations, insisting their encounter was consensual. He argued the woman fabricated her claims.
In a statement outside the courthouse, the woman thanked her loved ones for their support. She emphasized the importance of standing up for oneself, saying she wanted to set an example for her daughter.
McGregor to appeal
Shortly after the verdict, McGregor said in a social media post on X he intends to appeal.
I will be appealing today's decision. The judge's instruction and the modest award given was for assault, not for aggravated or exemplary damages. I am disappointed that the jury did not hear all the evidence that the DPP reviewed. I am with my family now, focused on my future.…
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) November 22, 2024
Political ambitions
The verdict comes just months after McGregor announced his intention to run for president of Ireland in the 2025 election.
The case continues to draw public attention, as McGregor maintains his innocence and prepares to challenge the decision.