UFC: 'Retired' Conor McGregor reportedly investigated for sexual assault

Conor McGregor in training
Conor McGregor in training. Photo credit: Getty

UFC superstar Conor McGregor is reportedly under investigation in Ireland, over accusations of sexual assault in December.

The New York Times claims to have confirmation from "four people familiar with the investigation", although the fighter has not yet been charged.

McGregor announced his retirement from mixed martial arts on social media overnight (NZT), although the tweet has been greeted with scepticism - it's not the first time he's 'retired'.

He's already in trouble with the law. McGregor was convicted for assault, attempted assault and criminal mischief, when he attacked a bus carrying UFC fighters near New York's Barclays Centre last April.

Earlier this month, he was arrested for felony strong-armed robbery and criminal mischief, after smashing the phone of a fan trying to take his photograph in Miami.

The New York Times reports McGregor was arrested and questioned by police over the sexual assault accusations, but was released, pending further investigation.

The woman making the accusations claims the incident took place at Dublin's Beacon Hotel, where McGregor was a guest at the time in question.

Irish news media have apparently reported on the matter since, without ever revealing the identity of the "unnamed sportsman".

UFC: 'Retired' Conor McGregor reportedly investigated for sexual assault

"Investigations are ongoing in this case and at this time, a file continues to be prepared for the director of public prosecutions," said Irish police, without confirming the suspect's identity.

McGregor's New Jersey-based publicist, Karen Kessler, has issued a statement, denying his retirement was related to the investigation.

"This story has been circulating for some time and it is unclear why it is being reported now," she said. "The assumption that the Conor retirement announcement today is related to this rumour is absolutely false."

The New York Times sources claim police secured evidence from a penthouse hotel room booked by McGregor, while also securing security camera footage.

Newshub.