The UFC returns to Sao Paulo this week, with former heavyweight title contender Derrick Lewis headlining a Fight Night card against rising prospect Jailton Almeida in a five-round main event. This bout holds particular significance as it marks Lewis’ first fight since he inked a new eight-fight contract with the UFC.
However, as the fight approaches, Lewis finds himself in hot water due to recent news of his arrest in Houston. The ‘Black Beast’ has apparently run into legal trouble just before his crucial fight.
Derrick Lewis Arrested for Reckless Driving
Local ABC 13 reports that Derrick Lewis was arrested on Wednesday, October 25th, after an officer spotted him recklessly manoeuvring his red Lamborghini through traffic. Lewis was driving on FM (Farm to Market Route) 2100 on the outskirts of Houston, Texas, and was clocked at a staggering 136 mph. This is in stark violation of the posted speed limit of 50 mph, putting Lewis at almost three times the legal speed.
The heavyweight fighter was arrested, but he was released on his own recognizance after posting a $100 bond on the same day as his arrest. Lewis is now scheduled to appear in court on December 27th to address the charges.
Derrick Lewis’ Need for Speed
Derrick Lewis’ passion for fast cars is well-known. In 2019, he famously reached speeds of up to 140 mph while driving his customized twin-turbo Lamborghini Huracan on a race track, safely away from public roads and traffic.
Lewis’ Bumpy Ride to MMA
Lewis’ journey to becoming an MMA star has seen its share of twists and turns. In 2021, he revealed on the Rich Eisen show that he initially aspired to be a professional boxer, even receiving support from legendary heavyweight champion George Foreman. Foreman had given him a car and planned to provide him with an apartment near the boxing gym.
However, things took a different direction when Lewis decided to pursue a career in MMA instead. He recalled, “I told them, ‘Nah, I don’t want to do boxing. I’m going to stick to MMA,’ because I felt like MMA was easier than boxing. So they took the car away from me. It was a Buick anyway.”
Attempted Car Theft in Lewis’ Past
Lewis’ cars have drawn enough attention that someone even attempted to steal one. In 2021, he posted a photo on his Instagram showing his bruised knuckles, captioned with “Satisfaction” and “He’s ok.” In a now-deleted video accompanying the image, Lewis mentioned that someone had tried to break into his vehicle, underscoring the downside of his luxury cars.
Derrick Lewis will need to put these recent distractions behind him as he prepares for his upcoming clash in the Octagon against Jailton Almeida.
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