UFC veteran Vinny Magalhaes arrested after domestic dispute

Former UFC athlete Vinny Magalhaes was arrested Saturday in Las Vegas on three counts of assault with a deadly weapon. According to local police records, the 40-year-old Brazilian is being held without bail at the Clark County Detention Center until his trial begins on December 23.

The police report indicates that the incident involved three potential victims who were allegedly threatened by Magalhaes during a dispute related to his ex-wife’s family. While the charges are serious, no shots were fired and no injuries were reported.

Magalhaes’s ex-wife currently has a protective order against him, which is scheduled for review and possible extension this Friday. If convicted on all three charges, the former mixed martial artist could face up to 18 years in prison.

The Brazilian grappling specialist made headlines in August 2013 while competing in the UFC when his family connection to famous Brazilian singer Sidney Magal became public knowledge. Despite receiving financial support early in his career, Magalhaes had sought to build his own path without direct association to his well-known half-brother.

Magalhaes and his supporters had a different take on what transpired than the media.

Prior to his UFC 163 appearance in Rio de Janeiro, Magalhaes addressed his relationship with Magal publicly. Though their significant age difference and geographical distance prevented a closer relationship, the half-brothers maintained mutual respect and admiration for each other’s careers.

Law enforcement officials have not released additional details about the incident as the investigation continues.