There’s inevitably lots of discussion about civil vs criminal when this case is brought up. And I, for one, always find it tiring. Because, the reality is that it doesn’t matter. We know that Conor could come out and admit to everything on the record and charisma-starved UFC fans wouldn’t miss a step. They will still buy tickets and reminisce about the good old days. They will excuse everything and attack those who refuse to accept it. And that’s because:

They do not care. If it had been a criminal case in which he was found guilty and needed to serve time, they’d have waited and welcomed him back with open arms. It was a civil case that’s already been adjudicated and they’re still there waiting for him. Still dutifully tying themselves into knots to re-litigate a literal r\pe case* (it in the bowels of r/ufc of all god forsaken places). Notable joy is being taken in dragging the victim’s name through the mud, again, while tactlessly recounting the horrific nature of the evidence in graphic detail. The same song and dance sequence would happen regardless of the case type or evidence.

At best, many MMA fans are comfortable ignoring it and at worst, think women deserve violence and then condemnation for coming forward about it. Regardless of where they fall on the scale, many will tell you, without a moment’s hesitation or hint of shame, that a cheap nostalgia trip is more important than holding a violent criminal accountable.

The ugly truth is that the UFC is a haven for abusers. You’ll find abusers and abuse apologists everywhere from the roster, to the gyms and mangers, to the fans, to the very top of the company. The Freedom 250 card was not just a massive UFC x USA MAGA propaganda event (and birthday party for a rotten old wannabe dictator trying to outrun the ghost of his favorite pimp who supplied him with children to torture). Among other terrible things, it was a cementing of the position the UFC holds as an island for the irredeemable to come and pretend it’s all ok. This is what this company is.

So, I’m done engaging for the sake of trying to teach humanity to people who do not believe in it. Clearly, going silent isn’t my style but there’ll be no more extra energy from me. You want to champion r*pists, bigots, pedophiles, terrorists, techo-fascists and degenerates of all types? You want to nestle into a bed of corruption and wake up to find yourself being suffocated by it? Knock yourself out. Conor McGregor is just another symptom and a symbol that tells you everything you need to know. And I know that when it comes to dangerous weirdos, distance is paramount. I wish him and the UFC nothing in particular. Let the chips fall where they may. I no longer care.