Dana White reacts to Anthony Smith’s arrest after alleged altercation with his wife: ‘Personal experience, it can happen to anyone’

UFC CEO Dana White has commented on the arrest of former fighter Anthony Smith following allegations of a domestic altercation involving his wife. Speaking at Friday's ceremonial weigh-ins ahead of UFC Belgrade, White acknowledged the seriousness of the situation while stopping short of detailed commentary.

Smith was arrested this week and charged with first-degree domestic assault, terroristic threats, and first-degree false imprisonment. According to the Sarpy County District Attorney's Office, Smith allegedly threatened to kill his wife and attempted multiple times to strike her with his vehicle following an argument at a bar in Gretna, Nebraska. He was released on $500,000 bail and ordered to stay away from his wife, with a court date scheduled for August 17.

When asked about Smith's case, White drew on his own experience. "It can happen to anybody," the UFC CEO told The Mac Life, adding that he hoped the situation "works out for him and his family and his kids." White's remarks reflected an acknowledgment of his own 2021 incident, captured on video during a New Year's Eve altercation in Cabo San Lucas, where he and his wife became physical during an argument—an incident he has since addressed publicly, stating there is "no excuse" for putting hands on a woman.

White also reiterated that the UFC provides support resources to both current and former fighters, though he declined to elaborate on specific programs. The comments came shortly after former UFC fighter Dustin Poirier was arrested at an Atlanta airport for public drunkenness, reigniting questions about athlete wellness in combat sports.