Anthony Smith arrested July 27 on three felony charges

Former UFC light heavyweight title challenger Anthony Smith was arrested in Nebraska on Monday, July 27, 2026, and faces three felony charges including domestic violence assault causing serious bodily injury, false imprisonment in the first degree, and making terroristic threats. The 38-year-old fighter, known by the nickname "Lionheart," was booked into the Sarpy County Jail shortly before 9 p.m. No bond has been set and a court appearance date is pending.

The specific details leading to the arrest have not been made public, as police records are still pending release. However, the charges are severe. Under Nebraska law, the domestic violence charge alone carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison. The other two felony counts each carry potential sentences of up to three years.

Smith, a longtime UFC standout and current ESPN analyst, resides in Omaha, Nebraska, with his wife and three daughters. He co-hosts the weekly show "MMA Today" for the network. ESPN has been contacted for comment regarding his status following the arrest.

A veteran of over 60 professional mixed martial arts bouts, Smith challenged Jon Jones for the UFC light heavyweight championship at UFC...