Conor McGregor has branded his rape accuser as a “vicious liar” in an online rant. It comes after Nikita Hand said she knew she would win her civil case against the MMA fighter who she accused of attacking her in a Dubai hotel.
The UFC heavyweight appeared in court for the past fortnight after Nikita claimed he “brutally raped and battered” her at the Beacon Hotel. She said she was haunted by the event for nearly six years.
Speaking to the press after her victory, she said she knew she would win her civil action because she was “telling the truth from day one.”
McGregor has now been ordered to pay £200k in damages to Ms Hand after the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) decided not to proceed with a criminal trial. McGregor yesterday indicated he intends to appeal the decision, Mail Online reports.
READ MORE: Conor McGregor fires homophobic insult at Jake Paul as boxer taunts him over rape case
READ MORE: Conor McGregor brands victim ‘liar’ and blasts ‘kangaroo court’ as UFC star launches rant
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(Image: PA)
Ms Hand told the Irish Mail that she was exhausted after the trial, and is overwhelmed by the support.
When asked if she had expected it, she replied: “To win? Yeah, yes, yes. Yes, because my story is true. I always believed in my heart that I would [win].”
The 35-year-old hair colourist said she’s been inundated with supportive calls and messages.
However, McGregor took to X to share his thoughts.
(Image: PA)
He wrote on X: “Justice was served for James Lawrence, yes!” In reference to his co-accused, who was cleared of assault. “Nikita Hand, vicious liar! APPEAL!”
In another post he wrote: “Falsely accused a man of rape and lost.” He again shared more comments: “This is not a court of hard evidence and truth. It is a kangaroo court of opinions and feelings. We are not done yet. Not by a long shot. No chance. On we fight!
“Justice and truth will prevail! Appeal! Appeal! Appeal! As well as other. Congrats James! Onwards and upwards!”
The jury awarded €60,000 in general damages, damages for loss of earnings of €135,026, agreed medical expenses of €4,557.64, and loss of future earnings of €50,000. Special damages awarded in total were €188,603.60. No aggravated damages or exemplary damages were awarded.
The total damages awarded were €248,603.60 (£206,639.31).
(Image: PA)
During the case, Ms Hand said she was “disappointed and upset” when the DPP decided not to prosecute the case after she made a complaint to gardaí.
In a letter sent to Ms Hand in August 2020, the DPP said there was “insufficient evidence” and there was not a reasonable prospect of conviction. Ms Hand asked the DPP to review the decision, saying she felt she was being treated differently because one of the suspects was famous.
Ms Hand said she didn’t want to speak in depth about McGregor, or about speculation the DPP may pursue a criminal case if new evidence emerges.
The standard of proof in a criminal case is higher than in a civil case as jurors must be satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt before they can convict. In a civil case, this standard is lower and a verdict can be reached on the balance of probabilities.
(Image: Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
The jury in the McGregor trial was told the balance of probabilities means they had to decide if something was more likely to have been true than not.
Dublin Rape Crisis Centre CEO Rachel Morrogh told the Mail: “Where a criminal case does not proceed, as in Nikita’s case… it can be devastating for victims and survivors seeking justice.
“With the high burden of proof in criminal cases, there may be a number of reasons for a decision not to prosecute. Victims can request these reasons and can also appeal the decision. Nikita’s civil action illustrates that this may be another pathway open to victims and survivors of sexual violence in pursuing justice.”
Speaking about the impact of the case on her daughter and other girls and young women, Ms Hand said: “Well, look… at least they can grow up in the world now you don’t have to shut up and say nothing.”
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