Anthony Smith’s next fight set in Gamebred FC, promotion releases statement explaining decision to book him

Anthony Smith has been booked to compete in Gamebred FC's heavyweight grand prix on October 2 in the Dominican Republic, facing Jordan Heiderman in the main event. The bout will air live on DAZN as part of a new broadcast partnership between Gamebred and the streaming service.

Smith's return comes while he navigates serious legal troubles stemming from an incident in Nebraska. The former UFC title contender was arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including attempted class 1/1A/1B/1C/1D felony, class 2 felony, terroristic threats, and two counts of first-degree false imprisonment. His wife was also involved in the incident. Smith pleaded not guilty and has been released on bail. A judge granted him permission to travel to the Dominican Republic for the fight, with a status update hearing scheduled for September 21.

Following the announcement, Gamebred FC president and COO Lex McMahon released a statement defending the promotion's decision to allow Smith to compete. McMahon emphasized that Smith, like any citizen, deserves due process and the presumption of innocence while his case proceeds through the courts. The statement noted that Smith has a family to support and that preventing him from earning a living before his day in court would be unjust. McMahon also characterized Smith as a devoted husband and father based on his long-standing personal relationship with the fighter, while acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and noting there may be more to the story than public reporting has revealed.

Smith made his Gamebred FC debut in April with a submission victory over UFC veteran Chase Sherman. A win over Heiderman would give him consecutive victories in the promotion as he awaits the resolution of his legal proceedings.