UFC welterweight released over domestic violence issue
“Based on the findings of this thorough review and investigation, UFC has advised Graves that he has been released from his contract effective immediately.”
Welterweight Michael Graves went 4-0 in the thriving Florida MMA scene, and became a cast member on The Ultimate Fighter 21: American Top Team vs. Blackzilians. He went 1-1 on TUF, and got a UFC contract. He went 2-0-1 and was scheduled to face Sergio Moraes at UFC Fight Night 100 in November, but was removed from the card in October over a domestic violence incident.
Now the UFC has released Graves. Via UFC.com.
In November 2016, welterweight Michael Graves was removed from his UFC bout following his arrest in Fulton County, Florida. As a potential violation of the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy, the UFC organization temporarily barred Graves from competition pending the completion of a third-party investigation. Based on the findings of this thorough review and investigation, UFC has advised Graves that he has been released from his contract effective immediately.
UFC requires all athletes to act in an ethical and responsible manner, as mandated by the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy. UFC holds its athletes to the highest standard and will continue to take appropriate action if and when warranted.
Graves fiancée at the time told police that the fighter punched and elbowed her in the head during an argument in their vehicle. A witness called the police, who later arrested Graves for misdemeanor battery charge.
