ladbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Conor McGregor's Manager Slams Report His Retirement Announcement Is Linked To Sexual Assault Investigation

Conor McGregor's Manager Slams Report His Retirement Announcement Is Linked To Sexual Assault Investigation

“The assumption that the Conor retirement announcement today is related to this rumour is absolutely false."

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie

Conor McGregor's manager has spoken out after a New York Times article suggested Irish police were investigating the fighter for sexual assault.

The report claimed the MMA star was being look at in relation to an alleged sexual assault at a hotel in South Dublin.

PA

People have been quick to suggest that the story being published on the same day that McGregor announced his retirement from MMA isn't a coincidence.

But the fighter's manager, Karen Kessler, has told ESPN that's not true.

"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. Should Conor fight in the future, it must be in an environment where fighters are respected for their value, their skill, their hard work and their dedication to the sport."

PA

The media has been in a frenzy since McGregor announced, via Twitter, that he was leaving the sport that catapulted him to stardom.

In the tweet, the 30-year-old wrote: "Hey guys quick announcement, I've decided to retire from the sport formally known as 'Mixed Martial Art' today. I wish all my old colleagues well going forward in competition.

"I now join my former partners on this venture, already in retirement. Proper Pina Coladas on me fellas!"

Fans weren't convinced when the news broke, with many believing that McGregor will end up like his former opponent Floyd Mayweather and simply come out of retirement when the offers get too good to refuse.

It's also not the first time Conor has teased his retirement. In 2016, the UFC fighter wrote on Twitter: "I have decided to retire young. Thanks for the cheese. Catch ya's later."

It's also a strange remark to make considering he was just talking about his next potential fight in July this year.

Speaking to Jimmy Fallon, McGregor said: "We're in talks for July. There's a lot of politics going on, it's a mad game, the fight game. To my fans, I am in shape and I am ready.

"There are many opponents, in reality I can pick who I please. I don't necessarily need to fight. I am set for life, my family is set for life.

"We are good, but I am eager to fight. We will see what happens, but I am just staying ready."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: SPORT, Conor Mcgregor, Entertainment, UFC, MMA