Diego Sanchez reaches plea agreement for July arrest on multiple gun charges
MMA Fighting
February 23, 2026
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Ex-UFC fighter Diego Sanchez has reached a plea agreement following his July 2025 arrest in New Mexico on multiple gun charges. He pleaded guilty to a fourth-degree felony charge of shooting from a motor vehicle without causing serious harm, which typically carries a maximum sentence of 18 months in jail and a $5,000 fine. However, due to the firearm-related specifics, the potential punishment increases significantly, with prosecutors seeking up to two years in prison plus supervised probation. Sanchez is scheduled for sentencing on April 6, where the court will determine his final sentence.
Sanchez was arrested after allegedly leaning out of a car window and firing a shot into the air near a crash site. Despite denying involvement, he admitted there was a gun in the vehicle. The driver, who is not facing charges, claimed Sanchez fired the weapon while laughing during the encounter. Law enforcement followed the vehicle and ultimately arrested the 44-year-old fighter.
Sanchez’s legal troubles come amid his ongoing efforts to overcome substance abuse issues, as revealed by his representative Ricky Kottenstette. A former UFC mainstay and title challenger known for his exciting performances in the octagon, Sanchez last fought in the promotion in 2020, losing to Jake Matthews. He continued competing elsewhere, including a single fight in BKFC in 2023.
The case highlights the intersection of sports and legal challenges faced by former athletes. For fans of MMA, Sanchez’s situation raises questions about his ability to continue his fighting career post-sentence and how this incident may impact his legacy in the sport. The
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Originally published on MMA Fighting on 2/23/2026