UFC CEO Dana White has commented on the arrest of former fighter Anthony Smith, who was charged this week with first-degree domestic assault, terroristic threats, and first-degree false imprisonment. Speaking ahead of UFC Belgrade, White said he does not know enough of the details but hopes things work out for Smith and his family, adding from personal experience that such situations can happen to anyone. Smith, a one-time UFC title challenger, was released on $500,000 bail and is due in Sarpy County District Court on August 17.
UFC CEO Dana White addressed the arrest of former light heavyweight contender Anthony Smith this week, offering measured remarks ahead of UFC Belgrade while acknowledging he lacks full knowledge of the circumstances.
Smith, known as "Lionheart," was charged with first-degree domestic assault, terroristic threats, and first-degree false imprisonment. The 38-year-old American was released on $500,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in Sarpy County District Court on August 17.
White, speaking at a pre-event media session ahead of UFC Belgrade, said he does not yet know enough of the details surrounding the situation. He added, drawing on personal experience, that these kinds of situations can happen to anyone, and expressed hope that things work out for Smith and his family.
Smith fought out of Factory X and compiled a professional record of 38 wins and 22 losses over the course of a lengthy career in mixed martial arts. The six-foot-four, 193-centimeter orthodox fighter, who carries a 76-inch reach, spent the bulk of his later career competing in the UFC's light heavyweight division. He was a one-time title challenger at 205 pounds and remained a recognizable name in the division for years, averaging 3.19 significant strikes landed per minute with a 49 percent striking accuracy rate across his UFC tenure.
Why it matters
- Smith is a former UFC title challenger and well-known figure within the organization, making White's public response newsworthy beyond a routine legal matter.
- White's comments were notably cautious, stopping well short of condemnation or explicit support, reflecting the sensitivity of the charges involved.
- The August 17 court date will be a significant moment in determining how the legal situation develops for Smith going forward.
