UFC releases statement on Anthony Johnson, Anthony Rumble Johnson

Anthony “Rumble” Johnson arrested for misdemeanor battery

Former UFC title challenger and now retired MMA fighter, Anthony Johnson was arrested on Monday night for domestic battery with his ex-girlfriend. TMZ was first to report the news, stating that Johnson admitted to getting physical during an argument with his ex-girlfriend.

In the police report obtained by TMZ, details of the incident include “Rumble” Johnson reportedly forcefully picking up his ex-girlfriend, putting her in a “football hold”, and carrying her into another room as she was trying to pack his belongings in an effort to throw him out of the house.

The report from TMZ states that when cops arrived and spoke with Johnson, he admitted to picking up his ex-girlfriend and carrying her into another room, but had no intention of hurting her, he just wanted to stop arguing Johnson claimed. While there were no visible injuries to the woman, she stated she was scared due to Johnson’s size and martial arts experience.

After cops spoke with both parties, they determined that Johnson had done enough to lead to a domestic violence arrest which led to Johnson being arrested and charged with a misdemeanor domestic violence charge. This is not Johnson’s first time involved in a domestic violence case, as he was arrested in 2009 for a domestic violence incident involving an ex-girlfriend, where he ultimately pled no contest to a misdemeanor domestic violence charge.

Anthony Johnson retired from MMA following his second loss to current UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier, when Johnson challenged Cormier for the UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 210 back in April of 2017. Johnson twice challenged for the Cormier for the light heavyweight title but fell short in both fights. Known for his incredible knockout power, “Rumble” compiled a 22-6 record in his professional MMA career. Since retiring, Johnson now does work with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship as Head of Fighter Relations.

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Mike Pendleton
Mike Pendleton is a current contributor to MyMMANews while also hosting his "On The Mic" podcast and is a former Associate Producer at Sirius XM's Fight Nation. With a special passion for interviewing and talking to the very best around the fight game, you can read or listen to Mike's work across his multiple outlets. Follow me on Twitter: @MP2310