Travis Browne’s manager is denying allegations that Travis Browne abused his wife.
The UFC stated Thursday that it will have an independent party investigate the claims by Jenna Webb, Browne’s wife, that she was a victim of domestic violence. On Wednesday night, Webb posted multiple photos on Instagram showing her covered in bruises. She claimed in a comment that Browne was the perpetrator of the injuries.
“Travis is innocent and we are excited that the UFC is doing an investigation, because domestic violence is an extremely serious issue and this is something that should be investigated regardless of who is in involved,” Fosco told MMAFighting.com. “It’s unacceptable.”
Webb’s caption read: “Probably one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made was walking away from this life and starting over. I’m still ashamed for staying as long as I did. #domesticviolenceawareness.”
Browne has left Las Vegas, where he was set to participate in fan events for UFC’s International Fight Week, and has headed home to California. Fosco said after a discussion with UFC officials that it was decided it would be best if Browne was not part of the week.
“They made it clear to us that this is a serious issue and they’re going to investigate it, but everyone is entitled to their due process,” Fosco said. … “This is a great week for the UFC. This is their week. It shouldn’t be shrouded in allegations that are unfounded.”
Fosco also called into question Webb’s method of passing along the information. She wrote on Instagram that she would not press charges against Browne, but wanted to make her claims public anyway. Fosco said Browne and Webb are going through a divorce and haven’t seen each other in five weeks.
“We look forward to complying and I just would ask people to really ask themselves a question and that’s if you’re a victim of domestic abuse or you know a victim of domestic abuse is the best course of action or is it an authentic course of action to go onto Instagram when someone has two children and a family and a job and post something in the court of public opinion?” Fosco said. “Or is to go to the proper authorities like law enforcement and make a report? I think we have to look at the credibility of the behavior.”
Browne, 32, is a top UFC heavyweight fighter. He’s coming off a knockout loss to Andre Arlovski at UFC 187 in May.
“UFC is aware of the social media allegations made against Travis Browne,” UFC senior vice president of public relations Dave Sholler said in a statement. “The organization requires all athletes to act in an ethical and responsible manner, as mandated by the UFC fighter code of conduct policy. The UFC will not tolerate domestic violence or any other violation of the policy.
“However, every athlete is deserving of due process, and this situation, as with any official allegations, will be thoroughly reviewed and thoroughly investigated by an independent party.”