Israel Adesanya arrested and released at New York airport
Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesaya was arrested and later released today after an incident at a New York City airport.
According to Port Authority police, the former UFC champion was “arrested at approximately 1:57 p.m. ET today, at JFK Terminal for possession metal knuckles.” TMZ first reported that Adesanya had been detained.
“The Last Stylebender” has already been released according to manager Tim Simpson of Paradigm Sports Management.
“Israel was handed a gift by a fan, which he put in his luggage,” Simpson said in the statement to MMA Fighting. “When flagged at the airport, Israel quickly disposed of the item, and cooperated with authorities.
“He has complied accordingly, with that the matter was dismissed and he is on his way home.”
Brass knuckles are illegal in the state of New York and possession is considered a misdemeanor punishable up to one year in prison plus fines. TSA rules allow metal knuckles to be stored in checked luggage but does not permit passengers to place them in carry-on bags.
Adesanya dropped his title to Alex Pereira by way of fifth round knockout on Saturday at UFC 281. The fight took place at Madison Square Garden.
