UFC veteran Tim Means faces felony child abuse charges stemming from an alleged altercation with his 17-year-old daughter. Authorities arrested the 42-year-old fighter in Tijeras, New Mexico, on Wednesday after the teenager called police during a dispute over household chores.
Incident Details
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office criminal complaint details the teenager’s account: Means allegedly headbutted her, grabbed her throat in a strangling manner, threw a potato at her face, and struck her head with a closed fist as she defended herself. Officers observed visible hand and red marks on the teen’s neck, suggesting strangulation. Blood appeared in her nose from the headbutt, along with red marks on her face and cheek.
Means’ Account and Release
Means acknowledged the argument to police but stated he only used force to restrain his daughter after she attempted to hit him. Courts released him Friday on his own recognizance. The case remains open as a count of child abandonment or abuse.
Career Background
One of the UFC’s longest-tenured fighters, Means has competed in 30 bouts since rejoining in 2014, holding a 33-17-1 professional record. He also coaches wrestling at Moriarty High School. Recent form shows five losses in six fights, including a setback to Court McGee in October 2024.
The UFC has issued no statement on the arrest or potential sanctions. The ongoing felony case in Bernalillo County could affect Means’ future in the Octagon.
