Anthony Smith Set For Gamebred FC Return Despite Arrest

Former UFC title challenger Anthony Smith will return to competition next month despite facing domestic violence and false imprisonment charges stemming from a July arrest.

Gamebred FC announced that Smith will fight Jordan Heiderman in the main event of the promotion's heavyweight tournament on October 2nd in the Dominican Republic. The bout was booked after Smith pleaded not guilty to multiple charges and posted $500,000 bond, according to BJPenn.com. He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Gamebred FC Defends Decision To Book Smith

The announcement drew immediate criticism from fans, prompting Gamebred FC president Lex McMahon to release a statement defending the promotion's decision. "Anthony is facing serious allegations, and like every person in this country, he is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence while his case moves through the courts," McMahon said. "Anthony also has a family to provide for, and competing is how he does that. Taking away his ability to earn a living before he has had his day in court is not something Gamebred FC is willing to do to him or to the people who depend on him."

Smith, 38, retired from MMA last year following a loss to Mingyang Zhang at UFC Kansas City but returned earlier in 2026 at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 9. His opponent Heiderman previously competed in the Professional Fighters League.

Smith is scheduled to appear in court in his native Nebraska later this year.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Anthony Smith set for Gamebred FC return despite domestic violence arrest