The perennial NFL fan must have noticed something different during this year’s Super Bowl game, specifically the absence of a key figure in the NFL’s media personality ranks. The Pro Football Hall of Fame and former Dallas Cowboys receiver Michael Irvin could not be found for most of the Super Bowl coverage, and the reason is strictly legal.

Both the NFL Network and ESPN showed their backs to Irvin after a woman accused the three-time Super Bowl champion of misconduct and misdemeanor, during a brief interaction in an Arizona hotel lobby.

Irvin has since denied the claims, stating that the only physical contact he had with the woman was a brief handshake. Irvin’s reputation, however, took a big hit, as the man was an active member of both the NFL Network and ESPN.

NFL Twitter support Irvin

As per interaction with the Dallas News, Irving said, “Honestly, I’m a bit baffled with it all, This all happened in a 45-second conversation in the lobby. When I got back after going out … I came into the lobby, and I talked to somebody. I talked to this girl. I don’t know her, and I talked to her for about 45 seconds. We shook hands. Then, I left. … That’s all I know.”

Having been sidelined, Irvin filed a defamation suit against the lady in question, seeking over $100 Million in damages. According to the lawsuit, Irvin was “shockingly woken up by a crew of security” and removed from the property “without any explanation or questions.”

Read More: Michael Irvin Demands $100 Million Reparation for Losing Super Bowl Coverage Job Amidst Serious Allegations Against NFL Legend

Recently, a federal judge ordered the Marriot hotel to hand over every video footage and witness statement to Michael Irvin.

His attorney, Levi McCathern applauded the decision saying, “Michael and I are pleased with the ruling, and we thank the Court for ruling so quickly and equitably, We look forward to receiving the information that we believe will prove that Michael was engaged in no wrongdoing.”

This development in the case can be considered a major stepping stone for Irvin’s redemption and NFL Twitter agrees.

Several users came out in support of Irvin.

With all the wholesome and loving messages, it is safe to assume that Michael Irvin still hasn’t lost the love of the people despite such accusations.

Innocent until proven guilty

With all the drama going on, a couple of witnesses have spoken out in support of Irvin. Three men in particular who were present at the hotel’s bar lounge area, all submitting identical versions of the story. One, in particular, recalled a female staffer approaching Irvin and striking up a conversation.

“It was very distinct, He leaned over, shook her hand, and I am telling you right now: That conversation was [about] 30 seconds. If it was a minute, I would be shocked. I think 30 seconds. Just a normal back-and-forth. … Michael walks toward the elevator. She goes back into the restaurant, and everything is as normal as could possibly be. And that’s it.” Recalled the gentleman.

With the investigation still under process, neither party has taken a step back. Amid the ongoing cancel culture, sure Irvin’s reputation has taken an unfathomable hit but as per the law he is ‘innocent until proven guilty’.

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