Ex-UFC fighter Diego Sanchez is currently detained on two gun-related charges, including a felony. Sanchez was taken into custody late Friday night in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

According to arrest records obtained by MMA Fighting, the 43-year-old was booked at 12:01 a.m. on two charges: shooting from a motor vehicle (a fourth-degree felony), and negligent use of a deadly weapon (a misdemeanor). He remains in jail, waiting for a judge to determine bail.

Sanchez reportedly leaned out of a car window and fired a gun into the air. Police pursued the vehicle and apprehended him; although Sanchez denied shooting a weapon, he acknowledged that he had a gun on him. The driver, not charged, stated Sanchez fired the shot, and Sanchez appeared to chuckle during discussions with police.

His representative, Ricky Kottenstette, mentioned that Sanchez is dealing with substance abuse issues and has undergone multiple rehabilitation attempts, hoping his client will receive necessary treatment after this incident.

Known as “The Dream,” Sanchez made a significant mark in the UFC during its mid-2000s rise. He won the inaugural Ultimate Fighter tournament and later challenged B.J. Penn for the lightweight title in 2009. Over his career, he garnered various Fight of the Night honors and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame for his match against Clay Guida.

In 2020, Sanchez departed from UFC after 15 years with the organization, with his last bout occurring in 2022 against Kevin Lee, which he lost by unanimous decision.