Pablo Popovitch issues statement regarding Thiago Silva’s arrest

The now former UFC light heavyweight fighter, Thiago Silva, appeared before Florida State Judge John Hurley today to answer for the charges stemming from his arrest yesterday evening (Feb. 6).

Following today’s court hearing, which was a result of yesterday’s gun wielding at a BJJ school and stand-off with police, one of Thiago’s two alleged victims in the case, Pablo Popovitch, took to social media (Facebook) to make the following statement:

“Concerning the incident that took place at Academy last night. During our evening class, at around 7:45pm. Thiago Silva was outside sitting in his car honking the horn non-stop. Thaysa went outside to talk to Thiago to understand what was happening and saw a gun. After that, I went to see what was happening and also saw that he had a gun. He seemed to be under the influence of some type of drug whether alcohol or drugs. My staff notified the police at that time, and soon after the police arrived. He took off and the police went after him.

Thaysa has been separated and living alone since December of 2012. Thiago has been charged with battery in the past and was seeing other girls and moving on with his own life.

It’s very unfortunate that this had to happen, the last thing I wanted us to see Thiago in this manner. I wish him all the best and hope this will soon be over.”

Thiago Silva is being charged with multiple counts (2) of aggravated assault with a firearm. Additionally, the judge labelled Thiago as a potential risk to the health and safety of the community, namely his wife and Pablo Popovitch.

The chance of bond was ultimately withheld by the court, and Silva was instructed to surrender his passport due to flight risks.

Following the court hearing, UFC officials announced that Silva’s contract had been terminated effective immediately.

By Chris Taylor