Former UFC heavyweight fighter Mark Hunt, a cult hero in mixed martial arts circles, has reportedly been arrested on a domestic violence charge in Australia. The incident allegedly involved Hunt threatening to kill a female acquaintance, leading to his detention by police in north-east New South Wales.
Arrest and Charges
According to reports from the Sydney Morning Herald, Hunt was taken into custody on Tuesday night. The 52-year-old New Zealander, affectionately nicknamed the 'Super Samoan' for his devastating punching power, was subsequently charged in court on Wednesday with one count of stalking or intimidation with intent to cause physical harm.
The court proceedings revealed that Hunt allegedly sent a text message containing a death threat to the woman involved in the case. Following his arrest at his residence in the Northern Rivers region, he spent the night in custody at Ballina Police Station and was initially denied bail.
Bail Conditions and Court Date
Hunt has since been released on bail after agreeing to a series of strict conditions imposed by the court. These conditions mandate that he must return to his residential address in Cobbitty, located south-west of Sydney, and he is prohibited from contacting the complainant in any manner.
His legal case is scheduled to be heard next at Ballina Local Court on April 30, where further proceedings will determine the outcome of the charges against him.
Mark Hunt's Fighting Career
Mark Hunt is widely regarded as one of the most beloved and respected fighters in UFC history. Throughout his eight-year tenure with the organization, he competed in 18 fights, earning a reputation for his exceptional knockout power and signature walk-off celebrations after victories.
He headlined five major UFC events during his career and fought for the interim heavyweight championship against Brazilian contender Fabricio Werdum at UFC 180. Hunt shared the Octagon with numerous legendary fighters, including Stipe Miocic and Brock Lesnar, before concluding his mixed martial arts career following a defeat in his final bout in 2018.
In addition to his MMA accomplishments, Hunt also competed professionally in boxing and kickboxing, showcasing his versatile striking skills across multiple combat sports disciplines.
Legal Battles and Post-Fighting Life
Hunt has faced significant legal and financial challenges since retiring from active competition. He famously pursued a lawsuit against the UFC, its president Dana White, and Brock Lesnar after it was revealed that Lesnar had failed drug tests before and after their 2016 fight. The bout was originally ruled a loss for Hunt before being changed to a no contest.
However, the Ninth Circuit of Appeals ultimately upheld a ruling in favor of the UFC and White in 2025, marking the conclusion of an eight-year legal battle initiated by Hunt.
In recent years, Hunt has undergone personal transformations, becoming a born-again Christian and adopting a vegetarian lifestyle. He has also ventured into business, promoting a tequila brand named after himself and other fighters, as he navigates life beyond the cage.
