Backstage Brawl: Andrei Arlovski and Jack Doherty Clash at Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua Fight

A backstage altercation occurred on Friday night at the Kaseya Center in Miami, involving former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski and internet personality Jack Doherty. The incident unfolded during the highly publicized boxing match between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua, which saw Paul suffer a significant defeat. Videos from the scene depict a confrontation initiated by Doherty, known for his prank-based content, who bumped into Arlovski, leading to a physical altercation.

Jack Doherty claims he was the victim of an unprovoked attack from UFC icon: ‘I didn’t do or say anything’Andrei Arlovski releases statement after backstage brawl with Jack Doherty and influencer ‘idiots’

According to Arlovski, the confrontation escalated when Doherty and his crew began to threaten him and his companions. Arlovski stated, “First of all, I didn’t beat [up] anyone, I just stopped the threat,” emphasizing that he acted in defense of himself and his family. He described the situation as a response to being provoked, noting that he was initially unaware of Doherty's intentions. The brawl reportedly lasted less than a minute before security intervened.

Andrei Arlovski releases statement after backstage brawl with Jack Doherty and influencer ‘idiots’

Conversely, Doherty claims that he was the victim of an unprovoked attack. He stated, “I literally didn’t say or do anything to him but I’ll always be the bad guy in the situation,” asserting that he was merely walking by when the confrontation began. Doherty's narrative suggests that he was targeted without cause, despite his history of engaging in provocative antics.

Jack Doherty claims he was the victim of an unprovoked attack from UFC icon: ‘I didn’t do or say anything’

Following the incident, Arlovski expressed his frustration with the situation, suggesting that Doherty's crew was seeking content for social media. He remarked, “They thought maybe it was going to be easy content for YouTube.” Arlovski also acknowledged that he was struck during the altercation, describing the punch as a “sneaky” move from one of Doherty's associates. He indicated a willingness to confront Doherty's bodyguard in a more formal setting, stating, “I would fight him if Jake Paul or someone else wanted to make it happen.”

Andrei Arlovski releases statement after backstage brawl with Jack Doherty and influencer ‘idiots’Jack Doherty claims he was the victim of an unprovoked attack from UFC icon: ‘I didn’t do or say anything’

The incident has drawn mixed reactions online, with some supporting Arlovski's defensive actions while others criticize the altercation as unnecessary. Critics of Doherty's approach argue that his prankster persona often leads to confrontations, while supporters of Arlovski commend his instinct to protect his family. The incident highlights the tension between influencers seeking viral content and individuals who may not wish to be part of such scenarios.

Andrei Arlovski releases statement after backstage brawl with Jack Doherty and influencer ‘idiots’

In the aftermath of the brawl, Arlovski is set to return to the ring on February 7, where he will face fellow UFC veteran Ben Rothwell at Knuckle Mania 6. Meanwhile, Doherty continues to share footage of the incident on social media, maintaining his presence in the conversation surrounding the altercation.

Jack Doherty claims he was the victim of an unprovoked attack from UFC icon: ‘I didn’t do or say anything’

• “First of all, I didn’t beat [up] anyone, I just stopped the threat,” — Andrei Arlovski, Former UFC Heavyweight Champion

Andrei Arlovski releases statement after backstage brawl with Jack Doherty and influencer ‘idiots’

• “I literally didn’t say or do anything to him but I’ll always be the bad guy in the situation,” he continued.” — Jack Doherty, Internet Personality

Jack Doherty claims he was the victim of an unprovoked attack from UFC icon: ‘I didn’t do or say anything’