Former UFC Title Challenger Anthony Smith Arrested On Felony Charges

Former UFC light heavyweight Anthony Smith was arrested Monday night in Nebraska and booked into Sarpy County Jail on three felony charges, including domestic violence causing serious bodily injury, and false imprisonment.

Smith, who turned 38 on Sunday, challenged Jon Jones for the UFC light heavyweight title in 2019, losing by unanimous decision. He announced his retirement following a knockout loss to Zhang Mingyang at a UFC Fight Night card in 2025, before returning to competition in April for Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA promotion. He currently works as an analyst on UFC broadcasts, but his career is now is serious jeopardy. If convicted, Smith will face up to 20 years in prison.