Former NFL star Antonio Brown has pleaded not guilty to an attempted murder charge in Florida.
He was transferred to Miami on Tuesday after waiving extradition from New Jersey, where he’d been held since his arrest in Dubai last week.
The 37-year-old was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center and is expected to appear before a judge on Wednesday for a bail hearing.
Brown’s attorney, Mark Eiglarsh, confirmed a written plea had already been filed.
“Antonio was attacked that night and acted within his legal right to protect himself,” Eiglarsh said. “He defended himself from an individual who had previously committed criminal acts against him.”
Antonio Brown murder charge
The charge stems from a May 16 altercation at a celebrity boxing card hosted by streamer Adin Ross. It’s the latest in a long line of off-field NFL scandals.
According to police, Brown grabbed a handgun from a security guard and fired two shots toward former friend Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu after the pair had fought earlier in the night.
Investigators said one bullet grazed Nantambu’s neck, though he was not seriously injured.
Officers did not arrest Brown immediately because they hadn’t identified Nantambu as the victim until he later gave a full statement.
Brown later claimed on social media that he was jumped by several men who tried to steal his jewellery. Brown claims he acted in self-defence.
A conviction for second-degree attempted murder in Florida carries up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Turbulent career and past incidents
Brown spent 12 seasons in the NFL, becoming one of the league’s most productive wide receivers.
He recorded 928 receptions, more than 12,000 yards and 88 touchdowns during stints with Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay.
His career unravelled in 2021 when he removed his jersey mid-game against the New York Jets and left the field.
The Buccaneers released him soon after, effectively ending his NFL career.
Since then, Brown has faced several legal problems, including battery and domestic-violence accusations and multiple child-support disputes.
He has also posted erratic messages online while promoting music and boxing ventures.
Now, as he returns to Florida to fight an attempted-murder charge, another chapter of controversy surrounds one of the NFL’s most mercurial talents.
