Anthony Smith's manager releases statement on arrest
Anthony Smith's recent arrest has led to a significant commentary from all corners of the MMA world, but his manager, Brian Butler, has now spoken up on his behalf.
With Anthony Smith in no position to address the public about his recent domestic violence arrest, his manager Brian Butler has taken it upon himself to call on the MMA community to withhold their judgment.
Anthony Smith's manager calls for calm
Anthony Smith was arrested on July 27 in Sarpy County, Nebraska and charged with first-degree domestic assault, making terroristic threats, and false imprisonment. Soon afterward, details of the alleged incident emerged, with Smith accused of threatening to kill his wife, Mikhala Renee Newman, after she allegedly refused to leave a bar in his company. Smith is further accused of forcing her into his vehicle and also of attempting to run her over. Despite the harrowing details, Smith's manager, Brian Butler, has advised the MMA community against passing judgment on Smith, with a statement released on X through renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helwani:
"We are aware of the reports concerning Anthony Smith's recent arrest. At this time, it would be inappropriate to comment on the allegations or speculate regarding facts that have yet to be fully established. Like every individual, Anthony is entitled to the presumption of innocence and the due process protections afforded under our justice system. We respectfully ask that people avoid rushing to judgment based solely on initial reports, as they often do not reflect the complete facts or context."
Butler ended his statement by wishing the Smith family well and asserting that no further comments will be made until the legal proceedings are over.
"Our thoughts are with Anthony and his family as they navigate this difficult and deeply personal matter. We ask that their privacy be respected while the legal process runs its course. Out of respect for the ongoing proceedings, we will have no further comment at this time."
Statement from Anthony Smith’s manager, Brian Butler, on Smith’s recent arrest:
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) July 31, 2026
We are aware of the reports concerning Anthony Smith’s recent arrest. At this time, it would be inappropriate to comment on the allegations or speculate regarding facts that have yet to be fully…
Smith had previously retired from MMA last year, after a first-round TKO loss to Zhang Mingyang at UFC on ESPN 66. However, he later returned at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 9, where he submitted Chase Herman in round one at heavyweight. He has since been released after posting a $500,000 bond, on the condition that he not contact his wife or leave Nebraska.
