**Conor McGregor Found Liable for Assault in Civil Case, Ordered to Pay €250,000 in Damages**

In a significant legal ruling, a jury at Ireland's high court has determined that renowned martial arts fighter Conor McGregor assaulted a woman, leading to a compensation order of nearly €250,000 (£210,000). The case stems from allegations by Nikita Hand, who also goes by Nikita Ní Laimhín, regarding an incident at a Dublin hotel in December 2018.

During the trial, the prosecution depicted McGregor, aged 36, as violently raping and battering Hand, a claim supported by medical testimony. A doctor from a sexual assault treatment unit had been so alarmed by Hand's condition that he insisted on photographing her injuries. Further accusations by Hand alleged that another man, James Lawrence, also assaulted her; however, the jury acquitted Lawrence of all charges.

Expressing her relief post-verdict, 35-year-old Hand spoke to reporters about the support she received throughout the ordeal. Grateful for her family and a rape crisis center worker who stayed by her side during the two-week trial, Hand emphasized the importance of seeking justice despite fear. Highlighting her determination, she stated, "I want to show my daughter Freya and every other child that you can stand up for yourself if something happens to you, and justice will be served." Hand hopes her victory will embolden other victims of sexual assault to come forward and assert their voices.

The civil lawsuit was primarily pursued by Hand for personal vindication, according to her barrister. This came after the director of public prosecutions decided against a criminal case due to insufficient evidence for a conviction. As the jury's decision was announced, McGregor showed visible disappointment and was instructed to pay €248,603 in damages.

Throughout the trial, McGregor denied the accusations, asserting that the sexual encounter was fully consensual and denying any physical harm to Hand. Describing her claims as a mix of "lies" and "fantasy," he arrived at court supported by family members and his partner, Dee Devlin.

Hand testified that her ordeal began after reconnecting with McGregor post a work Christmas party. The evening took them to a penthouse in a south Dublin hotel, where she recounted being sexually assaulted by McGregor after a night involving drugs and alcohol. Adding to her vulnerability, Hand mentioned she was also on antidepressants and under the influence of substances during the assault.