War Machine Apprehended in California, Being Held in Ventura County Jail
The search for War Machine, formerly known as John Koppenhaver, ended Friday afternoon at an Extended Stay America Hotel in Simi Valley, Calif.
The former The Ultimate Fighter 6 contestant was wanted in connection to an Aug. 8 assault of ex-girlfriend, adult film star Christy Mack and a male at her residence in Las Vegas that left Mack hospitalized with severe injuries.
Also See: War Machine’s Ex, Christy Mack, Releases Statement and Graphic Photos of Alleged Assault
U.S. Marshalls announced on Friday that they had captured the 32-year-old with cooperation from the police and Department of Homeland Security. He was transported to the Ventura County Jail where he is currently being held.
On Monday, Las Vegas authorities issued an arrest warrant for the mixed martial artist. Famed bounty hunter Duane “Dog” Chapman joined the manhunt this week but U.S. Marshalls caught up with the fugitive first.
War Machine was taken into custody without incident. Inside the hotel room was “a small amount of cash and some pizza,” a police news released stated.
After appearing on The Ultimate Fighter, Koppenhaver fought twice in the UFC. He earned Knockout of the Night and Fight of the Night honors at The Ultimate Fighter 6 Finale in his promotional debut. He was released by the organization following UFC 84 after making insensitive remarks about the passing of former UFC middleweight champion Evan Tanner.
Following his release by the UFC, Kopenhaver fought in several promotions. He last competed in June 2013 under the Bellator MMA banner. When news of the assault came to light, Koppenhaver was promptly released by Bellator.
