Conor McGregor Plans Move to the US After Losing Civil Sexual Assault Case

UFC star Conor McGregor is reportedly preparing to relocate from Ireland to the United States following the fallout from a civil sexual assault case he recently lost.

The case, brought by Nikita Hand, accused McGregor of raping and assaulting her in a Dublin hotel in 2018.

In November 2024, the Irish High Court ruled against McGregor and ordered him to pay Ms Hand over £200,000 in damages.

The civil case centred on Ms Hand’s allegations that McGregor had “brutally” raped and battered her. During the trial, Ms Hand described being pinned down and choked, claiming she feared for her life. Despite McGregor’s consistent denial of the allegations, jurors sided with Ms. Hand.

McGregor insisted their encounter was consensual, describing it as “vigorous, athletic, physical and prolonged,” while admitting regret for stepping out on his partner, Dee Devlin.

Hours after the accusations became public, Devlin, the mother of McGregor’s children, took to social media to defend him.

She declared that their family “stands strong” and criticised Ms Hand, stating her sons would be warned that “women like you exist in the world.” Devlin’s statement ignited controversy, with many accusing her of victim-blaming.

Business Fallout and Public Reaction

The case has had severe consequences for McGregor’s business ventures. Retailers in the UK and Ireland have announced they will stop selling his branded alcoholic beverages, including Proper No. 12 whiskey and Forged Irish Stout.

Additionally, a video game developer removed all content featuring McGregor, further damaging his commercial image.

According to sources close to McGregor, the fallout has deeply affected him. A source told Belfast Live: “The devastating fallout has completely rattled Conor.

He genuinely feels betrayed and plans to appeal the verdict to clear his name. The commercial damage in Britain and Ireland has been massive, with retailers cutting ties with his brands.”

In contrast, McGregor’s reputation in the US appears to have suffered less damage. The fighter’s American fanbase remains supportive mainly, prompting McGregor to consider a fresh start.

Reports suggest he is eyeing a move to Florida, though he also owns a property in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Calls for Clarification and Increased Support for Survivors

The verdict has drawn the attention of political figures, including Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, who called on the Director of Public Prosecutions to explain why Ms Hand’s allegations were not taken to a criminal trial. This lack of a criminal case has fueled public debate on how allegations of sexual assault are handled in Ireland.

In the wake of the trial, the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre reported a 17% increase in calls, with first-time contacts surging by 50%.

The centre’s chief executive, Rachel Morrogh, highlighted how high-profile cases can impact public awareness and encourage survivors to seek support.

Ms Hand hoped the case would inspire other victims to come forward.

She urged survivors to “keep pushing forward for justice” and to speak out “no matter how afraid you might be.”

Future Plans and Ongoing Legal Battle

McGregor, whose net worth is around £160 million, plans to appeal the civil court’s decision in hopes of restoring his reputation. As he prepares for a potential move to the US, the legal battle is far from over.

Nikita Hand, who is also known as Nikita Ni Laimhin, leaves the High Court in Dublin, Ireland, Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, after a civil jury found that mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor sexually assaulted her in a hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. (Brian Lawless/PA via AP)Read 

Given the high-profile nature of the case and its broader social implications, his appeal will likely be closely followed.

While McGregor focuses on rebuilding his life and business interests abroad, the case continues to spark heated discussion on issues of accountability, celebrity influence, and the challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault in seeking justice.