By Willow G11 and William G10

In a high-profile legal battle between Mixed Martial art fighter Conor McGregor, and Nikita Hand–the alleged victim of rape–, McGregor was found liable for assaulting her in a Dublin hotel in December 2018. A jury at the high court in Dublin awarded Hand more than 248,000 euros. Mcgregor denied the allegations, and vowed to appeal the decision.

The case involved moments after a work Christmas party. Nikita Hand and a colleague, Ms. Kealy, went with McGregor and Mr. Lawrence– the fighter’s friend– to the penthouse suite of the Beacon Hotel after heavy drinking and cocaine use. Hand accused McGregor of pinning her to the bed, assaulting her and placing her in a chokehold. Following the attack, she had extensive bruising, abrasion and emotional trauma. She was then treated in a sexual assault unit, where paramedics noted the severity of her injuries. 

The jury in the case found McGregor guilty of assault but cleared Mr. Lawrence of accusations of non-consensual sex. McGregor, in court with his family, shook his head as the verdict was read. Hand was visibly emotional and relieved as she thanked her supporters outside the courtroom.

Nikita Hand mentioned the impact McGregor’s actions had on her to this day, she is unable to work, she’s faced multiple mental health issues, while also not being able to afford therapy. To reporters, she explained the importance of speaking out and that it was important for her to show people that “justice will be served,” regardless of who they are or how powerful they seem.