NOIDA (CoinChapter.com) — A British High Court judge has decisively rejected Australian computer scientist Craig Wright’s long-standing claim that he is Satoshi Nakamoto. This decision came as a major defeat for the self-proclaimed creator of Bitcoin.
The decision undermines a key element of Wright’s controversial identity. Moreover, Judge James Mellor’s ruling could have far-reaching implications for the numerous lawsuits Wright has filed claiming to be the inventor of Bitcoin.
Wright is a known liar: COPA
Judge James Mellor’s ruling marks a critical turning point in a long legal case. Wright’s claim to be Satoshi Nakamoto, the author of the basic Bitcoin white paper, has sparked years of intense speculation, skepticism, and numerous lawsuits.
This court ruling now puts an end to those claims once and for all.
Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA), a group of cryptocurrency developers, has sought legal intervention to prevent Wright from asserting copyright ownership over the Bitcoin white paper and influencing the development of the Bitcoin network.
During the trial, COPA presented evidence alleging that Wright falsified documents and gave false testimony to support his claim that he was Nakamoto. Moreover, Wright strongly asserted that he was Satoshi Nakamoto and denied allegations of fabricating evidence.
Final arguments in the lawsuit began March 12. Interestingly, Judge Mellor issued his ruling within seconds of closing arguments ending.
Wright’s path forward
The British court’s ruling against Wright was a major blow to the computer scientist’s reputation. Essentially, the lawsuit legally proved that Wright lied in his claims.
Moreover, the ruling calls into question the basis of other lawsuits filed by Wright. Wright’s claim to be Satoshi Nakamoto was a central element. Wright has the option to appeal the decision, but the legal and reputational costs of further litigation may make him think again.
Meanwhile, Wright will likely attempt to divert attention from his Satoshi claims and focus on other cryptocurrency ventures he has been involved with.