Former UFC Star Diego Sanchez Arrested on Gun Charges in Albuquerque
Former UFC fighter Diego Sanchez, a pioneer of the sport and the inaugural winner of The Ultimate Fighter, was taken into custody in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Friday morning facing two gun-related charges, including a felony. The arrest marks the latest chapter in a tumultuous period for the 43-year-old athlete, who has publicly battled substance abuse.
According to arrest records obtained by MMA Fighting, Sanchez was booked at 12:01 a.m. on charges of shooting at or from a motor vehicle (no great bodily harm), a fourth-degree felony, and negligent use of a deadly weapon (discharge), a misdemeanor. He remains in custody as of 1 p.m. ET, awaiting a bail hearing.
Police reports indicate that Sanchez allegedly leaned out of a passenger car window and fired a gunshot into the air. Officers subsequently followed the vehicle and apprehended Sanchez. While he reportedly denied firing the weapon, he did acknowledge possessing a gun inside the car. The driver of the vehicle, who has not been charged, allegedly told officers that Sanchez was the one who discharged the firearm. Adding to the unusual circumstances, police noted that Sanchez allegedly laughed at one point during questioning.
Sanchez’s representative, Ricky Kottenstette, revealed to MMA Fighting that the former fighter is currently struggling with substance abuse. Kottenstette expressed hope that Sanchez will receive the necessary treatment following his arrest, noting that he has undergone multiple rehabilitation attempts in recent years.
“The Dream,” as Sanchez was affectionately known by fans, rose to prominence during the mid-2000s boom of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He captivated audiences with his aggressive fighting style and unwavering determination. Sanchez’s victory in the first season of The Ultimate Fighter alongside Forrest Griffin’s memorable battle with Stephan Bonnar is widely credited with bringing the UFC to mainstream attention.
Throughout his UFC career, Sanchez challenged B.J. Penn for the lightweight title in 2009 and consistently delivered exciting performances, earning numerous “Fight of the Night” bonuses and multiple “Fight of the Year” awards. His 2009 clash with Clay Guida remains a classic and is enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame.
After 15 years with the UFC, Sanchez departed the promotion in 2020. He continued his professional fighting career, most recently competing at Eagle FC 46 in 2022, where he lost a unanimous decision to Kevin Lee.
The arrest raises serious concerns about Sanchez’s well-being and future. While the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on securing the help he needs to address his ongoing struggles with substance abuse.
