The MMA star faces backlash and uncertainty after civil trial verdict

Conor McGregor, the controversial figure of mixed martial arts (MMA), finds himself at the crossroads of legal troubles and career uncertainty following allegations of 𝑠e𝑥ual assault and public backlash stemming from the repercussions of his civil trial. Facing significant fallout, the once-celebrated fighter’s future remains shrouded in doubt as many wonder if he can return to the octagon and reclaim his former glory.

Last month, McGregor stood trial over allegations of 𝑠e𝑥ually assaulting Nikita Hand at a Dublin hotel back in December 2018. The jury found McGregor liable for the assault, ruling against him and ordering the Irish fighter to pay €250,000 ($258,440) to Hand, along with covering her legal costs of approximately €158,000 ($158,000). Despite his historic success, the guilt assigned by the jury paints McGregor’s image with severe emotional and reputational scars.

On social media, McGregor’s touching memories of training and receiving his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have provided glimpses of the fighter he once was. “Received my black belt tonight from my coach, friend, and mentor, John Kavanagh of SBG Ireland. 20 years of hard work! Thank you John for everything over the years, and to all of my teammates throughout this incredible jiu-jitsujourney!” he shared, reflecting his enthusiasm for martial arts.

Yet, these positive moments are juxtaposed against serious legal ramifications. A High Court judge has even mentioned the possibility of contempt proceedings against McGregor for alleged social media posts attacking the jury’s integrity. Mr. Justice Alexander Owens criticized McGregor’s behavior, saying, “The social media post was constructed to be an attack on the jury and cannot be tolerated.” This has led many to question not only McGregor’s future boxing or fighting opportunities but also his mental health.

UFC commentator and podcaster Joe Rogan added to the scrutiny surrounding McGregor, expressing doubts about the fighter’s future after recent admissions concerning his drug use during the alleged assault. “I don’t know if Conor’s ever going to fight again,” Rogan said, referencing the whirlwind of partying and drug use overshadowing McGregor’s mindset. He added, “He was talking about cocaine. That was the whole thing: [he said] ‘we were doing cocaine…He likes coke.” Such statements hint at serious concerns about McGregor’s readiness to step back onto the UFC stage.

Far from proving his readiness, McGregor’s recent grappling training video drew mixed reactions from the MMA community, where fans expressed skepticism about his potential. “Beaten up on white belts,” one user remarked, hinting at the level of competition he was sparring with. Others insisted his techniques wouldn’t hold up against real fighters: “If he tries to grapple…they will knock him off easy,” one fan lamented with frustration. McGregor’s attempts to showcase his skills were overshadowed by the fact he has not fought since July 2021, where he suffered a devastating leg injury against Dustin Poirier.

With his scheduled matchup against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 falling through due to injury, whispers of McGregor’s impending return hint at the complications clouding his career. The challenges McGregor faces go beyond physical injuries; his actions have distanced him from past business partnerships. His Proper No. 12 Irish Whiskey brand, for example, has seen major retailers, including Cork and Dublin airports, cease to stock his products, highlighting the commercial backlash connected to his legal issues.

Rogan’s comment on McGregor partying hard demonstrates the shift many perceive from the once-dominant MMA fighter. “We’ve all seen Conor get beat up and knocked out,” Rogan recalled, outlining past fights and hinting at the toll his lifestyle choices may have taken on his performance. By recognizing McGregor’s rapid rise and his hard fall, the public sentiment reflects both disappointment and concern about his future.

Irish politician Ruth Coppinger even called for public boycotts of McGregor-affiliated products, indicating the extensive fallout from the civil case. Notably, even the National Wax Museum has removed the tribute statue of McGregor, once proud of its association with the star, but now symbolizing the tarnished reputation.

Looking forward, names like Belal Muhammad have weighed in, calling attention to McGregor’s declining credibility within fight circles, referring to the scandal as casting doubts over his return. The mixed martial arts world watches with bated breath, waiting to see if McGregor can make his long-awaited comeback, or if he will remain mired by controversies of his own making. While the fighter still boasts two fights remaining on his UFC contract, momentum appears stymied.

Even as Chael Sonnen speculated on potential matchups, such as teaming up with rising star Paddy Pimblett, the reality remains stark. McGregor’s skills and mental readiness may not align with the intensity required to compete with elite fighters today. The contradiction between showcasing his grappling, receiving accolades, and the raw truth of his actions weighs heavily on the narrative of Conor McGregor. “Can McGregor’s grappling skills redeem him after the Khabib defeat, or is it too late?” many wonder, still hoping for glimpses of the fighter who once enthralled audiences worldwide.

McGregor’s battles, both legal and professional, present unique challenges, marking his legacy as both celebrated and complex. The path forward seems uncertain as McGregor continues to navigate the repercussions of his actions, and fans ardently await his next move, hopeful for the return of ‘The Notorious’ they once adored.