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. Authorities took the 42-year-old fighter into custody on Wednesday after the teenager called police during a dispute over household chores.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office criminal complaint outlines the teenager’s account: Means 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. The complaint notes visible injuries, stating, ‘Let it be known that there were visible hand and red marks on (the teen’s) neck, indicating she was strangled.’ It adds that blood appeared in her nose from the headbutt, with several red marks on her face and cheek.
Means acknowledged the argument to police but maintained he only used force to restrain his daughter from striking him.
Legal Proceedings and Release
Court records show Means’ release on Friday on his own recognizance. The case remains open as a count of abandonment or abuse of a child.
Career Background
Means boasts one of the longest tenures on the UFC roster, with 30 appearances since rejoining in 2014. His professional record stands at 33-17-1, though recent form has dipped with five losses in his last six fights, including a setback to Court McGee in October 2024. He also serves as a wrestling coach at Moriarty High School.
The UFC has issued no official comment on the arrest or potential disciplinary measures. The ongoing felony case in Bernalillo County could affect his future in the Octagon.
