Luis Pena has been released from the UFC roster days after being arrested and charged with misdemeanor domestic violence and battery. News of Pena’s release was first reported by TMZ on Tuesday.
Pena, 28, was taken into custody early Saturday morning in Deerfield Beach, Florida, USA after authorities responded to a domestic disturbance call.
An affidavit filed by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office accused Pena of striking his girlfriend in the face multiple times, then striking another woman who attempted to intervene with the situation.
UFC sent a statement to TMZ following their decision to release Pena.
“Mr. Pena has been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse issues and the organization has on multiple prior occasions attempted to help him get professional treatment,” the promotion said.
“At this time, UFC believes Mr. Pena needs to deal with the health and legal issues in front of him, and consequently has informed Mr. Pena’s management that his promotional agreement has been terminated.”
Pena was arrested earlier this year for a separate case that had him charged with robbery by sudden snatching, battery and criminal mischief. Those charges were later downgraded and dropped.
Pena joined the UFC roster in 2018 after fighting on Season 27 of “The Ultimate Fighter.” He stayed active through his relatively short run with the promotion, posting five wins through eight appearances. His last fight was in April 2021.
Knockdown News 