Nikita Hand, the plaintiff in the civil action for sexual assault, stated yesterday that she anticipated prevailing in her case against MMA fighter Conor McGregor, asserting that her account had remained consistent and truthful from the outset.
In an exclusive interview with the Irish Mail on Sunday, Ms. Hand expressed that the outcome of the case meant her young daughter would not have to grow up in an environment where she feels compelled to “shut up and say nothing.” When asked about her feelings the day after the lengthy court proceedings, which garnered international media attention, Ms. Hand acknowledged, “I am just exhausted, to be honest with you, I’m just really tired,” further noting that she is now focusing on “taking it day-by-day.”
The 35-year-old hair colorist stated that she has been overwhelmed by an outpouring of support following the jury’s award of damages in her civil case against McGregor. “I’m just very overwhelmed with the support I have received,” she remarked.
When asked if she anticipated winning the case, she confidently replied, “To win? Yeah, yes, yes. Yes, because my story is true. I always believed in my heart that I would [win].”
Reflecting on the DPP’s decision not to pursue a criminal trial, she commented, “Obviously with the DPP, that didn’t work out, but yeah, I always felt like I was going to win because I was telling the truth from day one.”
McGregor, in response, has indicated his intention to appeal the verdict.
In response to media reports of Ms. Hand’s statement outside the court on Friday, in which she declared, “justice has been served,” McGregor posted on X, asserting: “Justice was served for James Lawrence, yes!” referring to his co-accused, who was acquitted of assault. He further labeled Ms. Hand a “vicious liar,” adding, “APPEAL!”
In a subsequent post, McGregor wrote: “Falsely accused a man of rape and lost.”
Continuing to use inflammatory language, McGregor posted: “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!”
Mr. Lawrence also took to social media, stating: “She is now fully liable for all my legal fees and I will be suing [her] for damages.”
