Former UFC title challenger Anthony Smith was arrested on Monday in Nebraska and faces three felony charges.
On Friday, Smith’s manager, Brian Butler of SuckerPunch Entertainment, released a statement addressing Smith’s arrest and asked people not to rush to judgement based on the initial reports.
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Smith was arrested on Monday evening at 8:44 p.m. in Sarpy, Nebraska following an alleged altercation with his wife. He turned himself in without incident and was later released on $500,000 bond after being charged with attempted first-degree domestic assault, terroristic threats, and first-degree false imprisonment.
“We are aware of the reports concerning Anthony Smith’s recent arrest. At this time, it would be inappropriate to comment on the allegations or speculate regarding facts that have yet to be fully established,” Butlter wrote on Instagram.
“Like every individual, Anthony is entitled to the presumption of innocence and the due process protections afforded under our justice system. We respectfully ask that people avoid rushing to judgment based solely on initial reports, as they often do not reflect the complete facts or context.
“Our thoughts are with Anthony and his family as they navigate this difficult and deeply personal matter. We ask that their privacy be respected while the legal process runs its course.
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“Out of respect for the ongoing proceedings, we will have no further comment at this time.”
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In the post, Butler also provided a comment from Smith’s wife Mikhala’s Instagram account.
“There’s not a lot I can say right now,” her comment read. “I love Anthony with every ounce of my being! He is a good man, a great dad, and an incredible husband who loves us endlessly. Anyone that knows him can attest to that. They made a mental health struggle into something it wasn’t. I am safe and always was safe. He would never hurt me. Ever. I called for help to protect him from himself.”
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Smith’s next court appearance is scheduled on Aug. 17 at the Sarpy County District Court. Smith retired from mixed martial arts last year having his retirement fight against Zhang Mingyang on April 26, 2025. He came out of retirement and competed in a bareknuckle boxing match in April.
