In the world we live in today, any domestic dispute between a man and a woman is usually settled quite simply; the man takes the hit or the charges are dropped. Regardless of whether the woman starts it, she will take the stereotypical stance of the damsel in distress that was abused. In the case of UFC’s favorite ring girl, the latter outcome was the final conclusion.
The entire world of mma was shocked when a domestic violence case was surrounding UFC ring girl Arianny Celeste. She truly is a fan favorite, and scrutiny was placed on her boyfriend, Praveen Chandra. She even made an appearance the same night of the incident at UFC 146. Not only is she upholding her professional status, but also showing the world she is not affected by the results of the dispute. On May 26th, Celeste reported that her boyfriend of seven months had choked her and grabbed her arm. Pictures and reports taken at the scene validate these claims. However, Chandra told the LA police that Celeste had initially kicked him in the nose inside the limousine before entering the hotel. She then allegedly threw two vases at him once getting inside the hotel once the argument escalated. Injuries on Chandra also matched the descriptions he claimed took place. Both participants were taken into custody. However, they were released and Celeste made a showing at the UFC event a little late.
It is clear that in any domestic abuse case, the general public will almost always side with the female. Clearly in this case there should be fault given to both sides. But how come it is always socially acceptable for a female to hit a male, but it is unacceptable for a male to hit a female? I think all abuse is abuse period. I don’t think it should be slated by gender but simply the fact that domestic assault is taking place. That being said, both parties were clearly victims in this case. Regardless of who started the domestic abuse, the second person never should have retaliated unless in the case of pure self defense. Both Celeste and Chandra were dropped of all charges. The LA police department cited there was insufficient evidence to prove otherwise. Hopefully, for the sake of her career and public appeal, Celeste has learned from her mistakes. She has been given a second opportunity with a clean record, and needs to utilize this freedom. Even if she was convicted of domestic battery, her fans and the UFC would more than likely feel sorry for her misfortune or root for her “defending” herself. Either way Celeste’s reputation has not been smeared, so once again the female’s character is intact and unharmed.
By: Elise Kapala