Gaming giant IO Interactive has officially ended its partnership with MMA fighter Conor McGregor. The decision comes hot on the heels of a court ruling that found McGregor guilty of sexual assault.
Known for their hit Hitman series, IO Interactive had planned to feature McGregor as a character in an upcoming DLC mission. But the fighter’s controversial past and recent legal troubles have forced the company to reconsider.
McGregor’s history of violent behavior outside the ring has long been a source of public concern. From bar fights to assault allegations, the fighter’s reputation has taken more hits than his opponents. The recent court ruling seems to have been the final blow for IO Interactive.
In light of the recent court ruling regarding Conor McGregor, IO Interactive has made the decision to cease its collaboration with the athlete, effective immediately. We take this matter very seriously and cannot ignore its implications. Consequently, we will begin removing all…
— HITMAN (@Hitman) November 25, 2024
This isn’t the first time a big name in entertainment has faced the chopping block due to misconduct. Hollywood has seen similar situations with actors like Jonathan Majors and Ezra Miller, where studios held off on action until legal verdicts were in.
IO Interactive’s decision reflects how companies are under increasing pressure to make sure their partnerships match up with public values and corporate responsibility.
The move raises questions about the future of any in-game content featuring McGregor. Will IO Interactive simply remove the character, or will they go back to the drawing board for a complete redesign?
