Police case! Legendary UFC fighter arrested again in the United States; find out why.

Diego Sanchez focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Getty Images/Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC

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At his peak as a fighter, Diego Sanchez built a legendary career in the UFC, but, away from the spotlight, he has been having recurring problems with the law. Last Monday (7), the American was arrested in New Mexico (USA), accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (with aggravating circumstances) and violating his probation.

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The information was released by the local broadcaster 'KOB'. Details regarding Sanchez's arrest have not yet been released. However, in March, the veteran was sentenced to five years of supervised probation after being arrested for firing a gun out of a car window on the highway while traveling. The incident occurred in July 2025.

At the time, the prosecution requested a two-year prison sentence for Sanchez on the fourth-degree felony charge, but the second charge was dropped as part of a plea deal. Because the bad boy cooperated with the case, admitting his mistake and accepting the judge's decision, he obtained parole. To obtain it, 'The Nightmare' claimed to have excessively used illicit substances, suffered from mental health problems, and assured that he was seeking help.

Sanchez's history in MMA

Diego Sanchez , 44, is a legend of MMA. The American began his career in the sport in 2002 and had his last fight in 2022. In the sport, the veteran was champion of TUF 1, competed for the UFC lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg), and is part of the company's Hall of Fame in the classic fights section, due to the battle he starred in against Clay Guida and won in 2009.

In MMA, Sanchez built a record of 30 wins and 14 losses. His main victories were over Clay Guida , Jim Miller , Kenny Florian , Martin Kampmann, Michel Pereira , Nick Diaz , Paulo Thiago , and Takanori Gomi.

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