The Zuffa-owned Strikeforce promotion has decided to part ways with former heavyweight title contender after his arrest Wednesday for felony-degree assault on his wife. He was also charged with a gross misdemeanor for child endangerment.
According to MMAJunkie, the release was confirmed by UFC President Dana White immediately following the UFC 132 press conference this afternoon. He noted that the release came immediately after the arrest in Apple Valley, MN.
Rogers last competed for the promotion less than two weeks ago, losing his quarterfinals match in the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix tournament to veteran Josh Barnett. He had dropped three straight fights for the promotion, which is often the kiss of death for a Zuffa fighter.
The police report indicated that Rogers had both strangled and repeatedly punched his wife in front of their two young girls. He admitted that he had been drinking earlier in the evening.
Rogers’ bail has been set at $100,000 during a hearing Wednesday and his next hearing has been scheduled for Friday at 11:00 a.m. CT.