UFC CEO Dana White has spoken about Anthony Smith’s recent arrest, saying the situation is a reminder that serious personal problems can affect anyone.
Smith, 38, was taken into custody earlier this week after authorities accused him of felony domestic violence and making threats to kill his wife. The former UFC title challenger was later released on $500,000 bond and is expected to appear in court later this year.
White Reacts to Smith’s Arrest
White was asked about Smith while in Serbia promoting this weekend’s UFC Belgrade event. The UFC CEO admitted to The Mac Life that he does not know all the details surrounding the allegations but said Smith was someone he would not have expected to face such a situation.
“ He’s one of those guys, too, that you don’t expect to see that happen.”
“But—personal experience—it can happen to anybody.
“So I don’t know enough about it, I don’t know enough of the details… But I just hope it works out for him and his family and his kids.”
Smith could face up to 20 years in prison depending on the outcome of the case and any potential convictions.
White Says UFC Supports Its Fighters
Smith is just one of several former UFC fighters to face legal trouble outside the Octagon. Former UFC interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier was taken into custody at an airport last month on a charge of public intoxication.
While the circumstances were different, the incidents have renewed discussion about the support available to fighters during and after their UFC careers. White said the UFC’s assistance extends beyond athletes who are currently under contract.
“We do so much stuff for the fighters.”
“Not just the ones that are under contract with us, but ones that used to be, too.”