Adesanya was arrested on Wednesday at JFK Terminal for possessing metal knuckles.
Nigerian-born Israel Adesanya has been released after he was detained at a New York airport following an attempt to go through security with brass knuckles.
SaharaReporters had reported how Adesanya was arrested on Wednesday at JFK Terminal for possessing metal knuckles.
Brass knuckles, made of metal or plastic, are illegal in New York, and their possession is considered a misdemeanour punishable by up to one year in prison plus fines.
His release was confirmed by Canadia-Arial Helwani, a Canadian-American sports journalist, known for his coverage of mixed martial arts (MMA) on his verified Twitter, referencing a statement issued by Adesanya’s manager, Tim Simpson of Paradigm Sports Management on the incident on Wednesday.
The statement reads: “Israel was handed a gift by a fan, which he put in his luggage. When flagged at the airport, Israel quickly disposed of the item and cooperated with authorities.
“He has complied accordingly; with that, the matter was dismissed, and he is on his way home.”
SaharaReporters had also reported that a Brazilian professional mixed martial artist and former kickboxer, Alex Pereira is the new UFC middleweight champion after knocking out Adesanya in the fifth round on Sunday.