Former UFC fighter Phil Baroni was recently arrested in Nayarit, Mexico on suspicion of murdering his girlfriend. According to the latest reports, 'The New York Bas Ass' might face a harsher sentence due to his MMA skillset.
In a statement to ESPN, the State of Nayarit's General Prosecutor revealed that Baroni's sentence might be increased from 50 to 75 years for using "pro fighter skills" to inflict injuries on his girlfriend. ESPN Deportes' Carlos Legaspi wrote on Instagram:
"State of Nayarit's General Prosecutor tells me that the "aggravated femicide" sentence can go from 50 to 75 years because it's evident that he used his "pro fighter skills" to cause injury on the victim. At least 37."
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Baroni is suspected of having verbally and physically abused his girlfriend, a woman from Mexico City, causing 37 injuries. 'The New York Bad Ass' has been charged with 'aggravated femicide', which already carries the highest sentence in the state of 30 to 50 years.
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Phil Baroni's sentence could be reduced if he pleads guilty
In his statement to authorities, Phil Baroni admitted to having had an argument with his girlfriend after finding out that she had slept with another man. Baroni then claims to have shoved her into the shower against her will, leading to injuries on her head. The single-shove version was dismissed by the court as the victim had injuries all over her body.
The sister of the victim testified that she had shown injury marks in the past as well but refused to go to the authorities fearing a violent reaction. Baroni's neighbors also testified about his violent temper.
However, the former UFC fighter's sentence could be reduced by 25% if he pleads guilty. Carlos Legaspi of ESPN wrote:
"Phil has now a private attorney, if he declares guilty, the process can start now and his sentence can be reduced by 25 percent. He has the right to be extradited to the US but is something that the State of Nayarit authority will oppose due to the circumstances of the crime"
Phil Baroni is currently in a Nayarit State jail but could be moved to a federal facility if deemed necessary.