Anthony Smith ‘reportedly threatened to kill’ his wife, allegedly ‘attempted multiple times’ to strike her with his vehicle leading to arrest

Former UFC fighter Anthony Smith has been arrested and charged with three felonies following an incident in Sarpy County, Nebraska on July 26, 2026. According to a statement released by the Sarpy County District Attorney's Office, Smith was involved in an altercation with his wife at a bar in Gretna, Nebraska, during which he allegedly threatened to kill her and forced her into his vehicle.

Investigators allege that Smith grabbed and pushed his wife into the car, then continued making threats and demands that she remain inside as he drove. When she exited the vehicle at home, Smith allegedly attempted multiple times to strike her with the vehicle, though she was able to avoid physical contact by getting out of the way. Smith turned himself in to authorities on July 27 without incident and was released on a $500,000 bond.

The three felony charges filed against Smith are attempted first-degree domestic assault (class II felony), terroristic threats (class III-A felony), and first-degree false imprisonment (class III-A felony). As part of his bond agreement, Smith has been ordered to have no contact with his wife and stay away from her while the case is pending. He is scheduled to appear in Sarpy County District Court on August 17.

Smith, 38, competed in the UFC for several years, including a notable run at light heavyweight that earned him a title shot before he departed the promotion following three consecutive losses. He returned to competition in bare-knuckle MMA in April, defeating Chase Sherman. Smith has not publicly addressed the arrest or allegations. The Sarpy County Attorney's Office stated that Smith is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.