Anthony Smith’s next fight set in Gamebred FC, promotion releases statement explaining decision to book him
MMA fighter Anthony Smith is scheduled to compete in a Gamebred FC event despite facing serious felony charges in Nebraska. The promotion defended its decision to allow him to fight, citing the presumption of innocence and his need to earn a living.
Why it matters
This highlights the ethical tension between sports organizations' commercial interests and the public scrutiny of athletes involved in legal proceedings.
Anthony Smith is getting back to work after booking his next fight as part of the Gamebred FC heavyweight grand prix taking place on Oct. 2 in the Dominican Republic.
The one-time UFC title challenger faces off with Jordan Heiderman as the main event with the card airing live on DAZN as part of Gamebred’s new broadcast deal with the streaming service.
Of course, Smith returns to action amid his own legal issues after he was arrest and charged with numerous felonies following an incident in Nebraska that also involved his wife. Smith was eventually released on bail and the judge overseeing the case gave him permission to leave the country to travel to the Dominican Republic for his upcoming fight.
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