UFC fighter Tim Means faces felony child abuse charges after a reported physical confrontation with his 17-year-old daughter in Tijeras, New Mexico. Authorities arrested the 42-year-old veteran on Wednesday following the teenager’s call to police about an assault stemming from a dispute over household chores.

Allegations in the Criminal Complaint

The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office criminal complaint outlines 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. 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, ‘There was blood on and in her nose where she was head-butted and several red marks indicated she was hit in the face and on her cheek.’

Means’ Statement to Police

Means acknowledged the argument to officers but maintained he only used force to restrain his daughter after she attempted to hit 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 in Bernalillo County.

Career Background

One of the UFC’s longest-tenured fighters, Means has competed in 30 bouts since rejoining the promotion in 2014, holding a professional record of 33-17-1. He also serves as a wrestling coach at Moriarty High School. Recent performances include five losses in his last six fights, with the most recent a defeat to Court McGee in October 2024. The UFC has issued no statement on the matter, and the felony charge could affect his future in the Octagon.