Former two-time champion, BJ Penn, will postpone his return to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) following allegations of sexual assault. A police report was filed on Tuesday, accusing the Hawaiian of forcing himself on a 29-year-old female last October.
While Penn, 37, is innocent until proven guilty, the promotion released a statement earlier today outlining its decision to bench "The Prodigy" pending an investigation.
From UFC.com:
"UFC is aware of the recent allegations made against BJ Penn. The organization requires all athletes who compete in the UFC to act in an ethical and responsible manner, as detailed in the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy. UFC will not tolerate violations of the policy. Every athlete is deserving of proper review and this situation, as with any serious allegation, will be investigated by an independent party and thoroughly reviewed by the UFC. The UFC organization will also cooperate with any law enforcement investigation. In light of the serious allegations, UFC has postponed plans to book Penn for an upcoming bout until more details are determined.
UFC holds athletes who compete in the organization to the highest standard and will continue to take appropriate action, if and when warranted. It is important to note that Penn is considered innocent until proven guilty and UFC is not prejudging this matter."
Let's hope featherweight nemesis Nik Lentz doesn't use this opportunity to draft another poem.
Pedro Alex Carrasco, former writer for BJPenn.com, blew up social media back on Tuesday (via Bloody Elbow) when he accused Penn of being a "pervert" and a "cocaine addict," who "sexually assaulted" his girlfriend. Carrasco later suggested he may have evidence of the incident.
Here is the official police report.
Stay tuned to MMAmania.com for ongoing updates to this still-developing story.