UFC star Conor McGregor avoids jail with guilty plea

Conor McGregor Image copyright Getty Images
Image caption Conor McGregor has not fought in the UFC since knocking out Eddie Alvarez in November 2016

UFC fighter Conor McGregor has pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct in a deal with prosecutors to avoid jail time.

McGregor had faced multiple criminal charges stemming from an altercation in April with other fighters.

As part of his deal he is required to undergo anger management treatment. The plea will not affect his US work visa.

In a statement outside the New York City courthouse, the 30-year-old thanked the judge and prosecutors "for allowing me to move forward".

He will also be required to fulfil five days of community service and, in exchange, will be cleared of criminal charges.

McGregor had been facing 12 criminal charges related to the incident at Brooklyn's Barclays Center on 5 April.

Media playback is unsupported on your device
Media captionWatch footage appearing to show McGregor attacking a bus in New York

The most serious charges carried a maximum sentence of seven years.

In a two-sentence statement outside the courthouse, he said: "I just want to say I'm thankful to the DA {District Attorney} and the judge for allowing me to move forward."

Image copyright Getty Images
Image caption McGregor and Vladimir Putin pose during the World Cup match between France and Croatia in Moscow on 15 July 2018

"I want to say to my friends, my family, my fans: thank you for the support."

Several fans had gathered outside the court, with several holding signs expressing their support for the "champ".

You might also like:

Image copyright Aspencrow/JD Malat Gallery
Image caption The sculpture will be unveiled on McGregor's 30th birthday