Former UFC heavyweight Mark Hunt has been arrested in north-east New South Wales in Australia, over a domestic violence-related allegation. The 52-year-old was taken into custody on Tuesday evening after police responded to a reported incident at a home in the Northern Rivers region. He was later moved to Ballina Police Station, where he was formally charged with one count of stalking or intimidation with intent to cause physical harm.Hunt appeared in court on Wednesday, where he was initially refused bail but later granted release under strict conditions. Authorities claim the incident involved threats and aggressive behavior towards a woman known to him. The case has drawn attention due to Hunt’s high-profile career in mixed martial arts and combat sports across Oceania and globally.
Court hears allegations on Mark Hunt and bail conditions
Police told the court that Mark Hunt allegedly threatened a family member during an incident at a residential property. According to the case details, the woman was assisting him with a task when his behavior reportedly turned hostile. Officers claim he acted in an intimidating and verbally aggressive manner, which caused fear and distress not only to the woman but also to another witness present at the scene.Investigators also mentioned an alleged message in which Hunt reportedly issued a serious threat to the woman’s life. However, his legal team denied that he sent such a message, and no separate charge has been filed regarding that claim. Prosecutors argued against bail, stating that Hunt’s background as a professional fighter could increase potential risks to the victim and the community.The defense responded by saying his sporting career should not be linked to the allegations. They maintained that being a former UFC fighter does not automatically make him prone to violent behavior in personal situations. The defense also indicated that Hunt may consider pleading guilty to the intimidation charge.Judge Lisa Viney eventually granted bail with strict conditions. Hunt has been ordered to stay at his home in Cobbitty, located in south-west Sydney, and must not contact the complainant. The court also noted that further legal proceedings will continue later this month.Hunt, widely known as the “Super Samoan”, built a strong reputation in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) between 2010 and 2018. He also competed in kickboxing and boxing, facing well-known athletes such as Paul Gallen, Brock Lesnar and Sonny Bill Williams. In 2016, he tried to sue Dana White and Lesnar after the WWE icon failed the drug test after defeating him. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 30 at Ballina Local Court.
