On September 19, 2014, UFC light heavyweight prospect Anthony Johnson was suspended from the UFC for past allegations of domestic abuse that came to light during the Ray Rice NFL scandal. Three months later, the civil case levied against Johnson has been officially dismissed last week. As a result, Johnson can now return to fight inside the Octagon and pursue his dream at UFC gold.
On Thursday, the UFC released the following statement about Johnson’s current situation.
The person who filed a civil temporary protection order against UFC contender Anthony Johnson last September voluntarily dismissed their complaint last week in the Florida Circuit Court. Before granting a dismissal of the case, the presiding judge independently questioned the alleging party regarding their voluntary intentions, and, thereafter, the judge dismissed the entire matter.
The dismissal of the case, along with an independent investigation that was commissioned by the UFC organization, brings closure to this matter for Johnson and allows him to return to competition in the UFC. As a result, UFC officials are exploring options for Johnson’s next fight to take place early next year.
Right before the allegations of domestic abuse, Johnson was expected to face top Swedish contender Alexander Gustafsson at UFC on FOX 13 in December, a light heavyweight bout that may be back on the table since Gustafsson still doesn’t have an opponent to face in early 2015.
