Former UFC Champion Anthony Smith Charged with Felony Domestic Violence in Nebraska

On July 26, 2026, in Gretna, Nebraska, former UFC light-heavyweight contender Anthony Smith allegedly threatened his wife, Mikhala Renee Newman, after she refused to accompany him home from a bar. Prosecutors say Smith forced Newman into a vehicle, and that she exited the car multiple times while he attempted to strike her with the vehicle at their residence. Witnesses reportedly assisted Newman and their four daughters in leaving the premises. Smith was arrested the following day, July 27, and booked on three felony counts.

New York Post

The Sarpy County Attorney’s Office filed charges of first-degree domestic assault causing serious bodily injury (a class II felony), terroristic threats (class III-A felony), and false imprisonment (class III-A felony). Smith was detained at Sarpy County Jail in Papillion, released on a $500,000 bond, and ordered to have no contact with his wife. He is scheduled to appear in court again on Aug. 17, 2026.

ESPN

Anthony Smith, a 38-year-old former mixed-martial-arts fighter, retired from the UFC in April 2025 after a 17-year professional career that included a 2019 title challenge against Jon Jones. He returned to combat sports in April 2026, winning a bare-knuckle MMA bout against Chase Sherman in Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred promotion. Prior to retirement, Smith worked as a studio analyst for ESPN and later for Paramount following the UFC’s broadcast rights deal.

ESPN

If convicted, Smith faces up to 26 years in prison, reflecting the maximum penalties for the three felony charges. The $500,000 bond and no-contact order remain in effect pending trial.

ESPN

Sarpy County officials released a statement confirming the investigation, noting that witnesses heard gunshots from the Smith residence and that Smith threatened self-harm if law enforcement entered. Neither Smith nor Newman has publicly commented on the incident.

New York Post