Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has reportedly been arrested for taking brass knuckles through security and John F. Kennedy Airport in New York.
The 33-year-old, who lost his title by TKO to Alex Pereira in New York on Saturday, was arrested by Port Authority police in the American Airlines terminal at around 1:57pm EST. A Port Authority spokesperson confirmed the arrest saying he was booked for possessing ‘metal knuckles.’
He allegedly possessed brass knuckles, which are illegal in New York state and is a misdemeanor offence.
If convicted, he may spend up to one year in jail plus potential fines.
He has been detained in police custody and may be barred from leaving New York until officials complete their investigation.
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A native of Lagos, Nigeria, Adesanya is now a citizen of New Zealand and currently lives in Auckland.
It’s uncertain if Adesanya’s brass knuckles were a part of his carry-on bag, on his person, or in a checked bag. The purpose of the possession is also uncertain at this time.