UFC veteran Tim Means faces felony child abuse charges stemming from an alleged physical confrontation with his 17-year-old daughter in Tijeras, New Mexico.
Details of the Incident
Authorities took the 42-year-old fighter into custody on Wednesday after the teenager dialed 911 to report an assault during a dispute over household chores. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office criminal complaint outlines the daughter’s account: Means headbutted her, strangled her by grabbing her throat, hurled a potato at her face, and punched her head with a closed fist as she tried to protect herself.
Examinations revealed visible handprints and red marks on the teen’s neck consistent with strangulation, blood in her nose from the headbutt, and additional red marks on her face and cheek from the strikes.
Means’ Account and Legal Status
Means acknowledged the argument to officers but maintained he only restrained his daughter to prevent her from striking him. He secured release on Friday via own recognizance, with court records listing the ongoing case as abandonment or abuse of a child.
Career Background
One of the UFC’s most enduring competitors, Means has fought 30 times since rejoining in 2014, compiling a 33-17-1 professional record. He also coaches wrestling at Moriarty High School. Recent form has dipped, with five losses in six outings, including a setback against Court McGee in October 2024.
The UFC has issued no comment on the arrest or prospective sanctions. This felony allegation may jeopardize Means’ future bouts in the Octagon as proceedings advance in Bernalillo County.
