Conor McGregor admits to cocaine use during trial for alleged rape case

UFC star Conor McGregor admits to cocaine use during 2018 night in question, denies rape allegations.

Mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor testified in Dublin’s High Court, denying allegations of rape while admitting to cocaine use on the night in question. The civil trial, brought by Dublin woman Nikita Hand, follows a 2018 incident at the Beacon Hotel, with McGregor claiming the encounter was consensual.

Under cross-examination, McGregor confirmed he had cocaine in his car with Ms. Hand and another witness, stating, “There was a small bag of cocaine present around Krystal nightclub.” McGregor emphasized that he followed legal advice to submit a prepared written statement to police in 2019, adding, “I feel I was as good, as cooperative… This is alien to me.” He described the allegations as “false,” asserting, “I’m here to say my piece and my truth. These allegations are lies.”

Ms. Hand accused McGregor of placing her in a choke hold and raping her, seeking damages for the alleged sexual assault. She testified about distressing physical evidence, including bruising and a tampon removed via forceps during a gynecological exam. McGregor denied these claims, responding, “Not with me,” when asked how the tampon became lodged.

McGregor’s co-defendant, James Lawrence, testified that Ms. Hand initiated consensual sex with him twice and dismissed suggestions he was acting as McGregor’s “fall guy.” He stated, “Not in a million years,” adding, “I have six sisters and nieces and would not defend such actions.”

The civil case proceeds as the Director of Public Prosecutions opted not to pursue criminal charges. Both McGregor and Ms. Hand continue to present contrasting accounts of the night.