The trial of the mixed martial arts fighter whose legal name is War Machine (changed from Jonathan Paul Koppenhaver) begins on Monday. War Machine is charged with attempted murder, sexual assault, kidnapping, and dozens of other charges for allegedly attacking his ex-girlfriend, Christine Mackinday, also known as adult film star Christy Mack, and Corey Thomas, who was in bed with her at the time.
The alleged incident took place in August 2014, when the former Koppenhaver entered Mackinday’s home and found the pair sleeping in bed together. War Machine allegedly assaulted Thomas using maneuvers he’s utilized to win professional fights, and then turned his attention to Mackdinday. He is accused of inflicting injuries including broken teeth, swollen eyes, and a lacerated liver, as well as sexually assaulting Mackinday, threatening to rape and kill her.
Mackinday posted pictures of her injuries on the internet after the alleged attack, and War Machine’s legal team has claimed that she consented to the activity, due to the former porn star’s proclivity towards rough sex and rape fantasies.
War Machine faces up to life in prison without parole. The trial is taking place at the Regional Justice Center in Las Vegas, beginning at 1:00 pm local time.
