Anthony Smith’s next fight announced after recent arrest

A couple of months ago in Jul. 2026, Anthony Smith, a former UFC fighter, was reportedly arrested on three felony charges in Nebraska. The TMZ report also added that Smith was facing charges for terroristic threats, false imprisonment [first degree], and domestic violence causing serious bodily injury. In another report shared by MMA Fighting, it was confirmed that Smith remained in custody at the Sarpy County Jail following the arrest.]

On Wednesday, Jul. 29, 2026, MMA Junkie reported that he was granted a $500,000 bond and the condition that he’d stay away from his wife. Upon his release, he was subjected to a strict order forbidding any contact with his wife, and he is also barred from leaving Nebraska unless he obtains prior court authorization.

Away from fighting, Smith has not fought since he returned from retirement at a Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA event in Apr. 2026. The 38-year-old suffered a defeat after getting choked out by Chase Sherman on a card promoted by Jorge Masvidal. However, Smith is now set to revive his fighting career after months of absence.

The former UFC fighter is set to take on heavyweight Jordan Heiderman in bare-knuckle MMA. The two are set to headline a Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA show in the Dominican Republic on Oct. 2, 2026.

More details on Anthony Smith’s return fight

Shortly after the fight was announced, Gamebred defended their choice of booking Smith.

“Anthony is facing serious allegations, and like every person in this country, he is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence while his case moves through the courts. He has pleaded not guilty, and that process deserves to play out fully and fairly, on its own timeline, without a promotion, a headline, or public opinion getting ahead of the facts.

“Anthony also has a family to provide for, and competing is how he does that. Taking away his ability to earn a living before he has had his day in court is not something Gamebred FC is willing to do to him or to the people who depend on him,” the promotion shared via a social media statement.

They also noted that they would like to not comment anything on the legal matter and hope to see Anthony Smith’s and his family’s privacy respected.