Dana White has shared his first public comments following the arrest of former UFC title challenger Anthony Smith. He claimed that the allegations came as a surprise and expressed hope that the situation is resolved for everyone involved.
Smith, 38, was arrested earlier this week in Nebraska after an alleged altercation involving his wife at a bar in Gretna. He has been charged with three felony offenses including first-degree domestic assault, terroristic threats, and first-degree false imprisonment. Authorities later released him on a $500,000 bond, ordered him to have no contact with his wife, and scheduled his next court appearance for Aug. 17.
According to the Sarpy County Attorney’s Office, Smith allegedly threatened to kill his wife if she refused to leave with him before forcing her into a vehicle. Investigators further allege that after she escaped from the vehicle, Smith attempted multiple times to strike her with it before eventually leaving the scene. Officials said Smith later turned himself in after an arrest warrant was issued.
In a recent interview with The Mac Life, White admitted he had not yet learned all the details of the case but said the news was unexpected given Smith’s reputation:
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“Well, he’s one of those guys, too, you don’t expect to see that happen. [From] personal experience, it can happen to anybody. I don’t know enough about it. I don’t know enough of the details. I’ve been on the road this whole time, but I just hope it works out for him and his family and his kids.”
Check out Dana White‘s comments below:
Anthony Smith’s manager issues first statement after former UFC star’s felony arrest
Anthony Smith’s manager, Brian Butler of SuckerPunch Entertainment, has issued the first statement from the former UFC title challenger’s camp following Smith’s arrest on three felony charges in Nebraska.
Butler said it would be inappropriate to comment on the allegations while the legal process is ongoing and stressed that Smith is entitled to the presumption of innocence and due process. He also asked the public to avoid rushing to judgment based on initial reports and requested privacy for Smith and his family:
“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. 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. Out of respect for the ongoing proceedings, we will have no further comment at this time.”
Edited by Abhishek Nambiar
