White On Smith's Arrest: Didn't Expect It

Dana White said Anthony Smith's arrest on felony domestic violence charges was not something he saw coming from the longtime UFC heavyweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">light heavyweight.

TMZ first reported that Smith was taken into custody by Sarpy County police on Monday, and MMA Junkie later obtained a police statement alleging the former title contender forced his wife into a vehicle after a bar argument and tried to run her over multiple times. Smith faces charges of terroristic threats, domestic violence, and false imprisonment.

White Hopes Situation Works Out For Smith's Family

The UFC president told The Mac Life he lacks details but was surprised by the incident. "Well, he's one of those guys, too, you don't expect to see that happen," White said, per MMA Junkie. "I don't know enough about it. I don't know enough of the details. I've been on the road this whole time, but I just hope it works out for him and his family and his kids."

Smith works as an analyst on UFC broadcasts for Paramount Plus and previously held the same role during the promotion's FOX era. The promotion has not announced whether his broadcasting future is affected.

Smith is reportedly facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted on all counts. Jon Jones, who defeated Smith in the UFC 235 headliner in 2019, was among the fighters who reacted publicly to the arrest.

Original reporting:

• bjpenn.com — Dana White responds to Anthony Smith's arrest: "You don't expect to see that happen" | BJPenn.com