Anthony Smith's manager, Brian Butler, has broken his silence after the UFC fighter's arrest on Monday in Nebraska, where he faces three felony charges.
Butler issued a pair of statements on Friday, asking the public to withhold judgment at this time. In a statement shared with MMA Junkie and posted on his Instagram, Butler wrote, "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."
Butler also shared a comment that appeared to be from Smith's wife Mikhala's Instagram, though the account is private. The comment reads, "There's not a lot I can say right now. 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."
The alleged incident that led to Smith's arrest occurred at a bar in Gretna, Neb., where Smith allegedly threatened to kill his wife if she did not go home with him. According to the Sarpy County attorney's office, Smith grabbed his wife and pushed her into the vehicle, and later tried to hit her with the vehicle when she escaped during the drive.
Smith, 38, currently faces three felony charges: first-degree domestic assault, terroristic threats, and first-degree false imprisonment. He is scheduled to appear in court again on August 17 after being released on $500,000 bond on Wednesday.
UFC CEO Dana White was asked about the incident in an interview with The Mac Life, and seemed to withhold judgment on Smith's situation. White said, "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."
The incident has raised concerns about mental health and domestic violence, and highlights the importance of seeking help and support in times of crisis. Smith currently serves as an analyst for UFC events, working the desk, and is no longer an active fighter for the promotion.
The court proceedings will continue, with Smith scheduled to appear in court again on August 17.
Source: Yahoo Sports