Ex-NFL Star Extradited to US for Attempted Murder
Antonio Brown, 2021. Photo courtesy of All-Pro Reels under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Former NFL standout Antonio Brown has found himself back in the spotlight, but this time not for his athletic prowess. Brown was extradited from Dubai to the United States in early November 2025 to face a serious charge, second-degree attempted murder. The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on May 16, 2025, outside a celebrity boxing event in Miami, Florida. This case is steeped in intrigue and curiosity, as Brown claims self-defense and cites struggles with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), while authorities point to video evidence showing him allegedly grabbing a security staffer's gun and firing shots.
The Incident and Arrest
The shooting unfolded shortly after a celebrity boxing match hosted by streamer Adin Ross. According to Miami police, Brown was involved in a physical altercation with a man identified as Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu. Following the fight, Brown allegedly seized a handgun from a security staffer and fired two shots at Nantambu, one of which grazed the victim's neck, as reported by the Associated Press. The victim sought medical treatment for his injuries, and an arrest warrant for Brown was issued in June 2025.
Video footage circulating online reportedly captured the chaotic scene. In one clip, Brown is seen running toward a group of people while holding an object in his hand seconds before gunshots ring out, as reported by PEOPLE. Bystanders can be heard reacting in shock, with one exclaiming that Brown had a gun. Despite being detained at the scene, Brown was released that same night as police could not immediately locate a victim.
Extradition From Dubai
Brown's legal troubles took an international turn when he was apprehended in Dubai by the U.S. Marshals Service. He was flown to Essex County Correctional Facility in New Jersey, where he is currently held pending extradition to Miami to face the attempted murder charge. The reasons for routing Brown through New Jersey remain unclear, as does the length of his stay in Dubai prior to his arrest. Brown had been active on social media from Dubai, in the months leading up to his extradition.
Brown's Defense and Past Legal Issues
In the wake of the incident, Brown has maintained that he acted in self-defense. On a livestream hosted by Adin Ross, Brown claimed he was "jumped by multiple individuals" and suffered from CTE, a brain condition linked to repeated head trauma common among football players, as reported by PEOPLE. He stated that he "blacked out" during the altercation and was unsure of what transpired. Brown also posted on social media that police had temporarily detained him, but released him after hearing his side of the story, asserting that he went home that night without being arrested.
This incident adds to a long list of legal challenges Brown has faced over the years. His past includes a 2019 civil case where he was accused of sexually assaulting a former trainer, Britney Taylor, allegations he denied and later countered with a lawsuit. The case was settled in 2021. Brown has also faced charges related to domestic violence, failure to pay child support, and a notable incident in 2021 when he abruptly left a game mid-play, leading to his release from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and effectively ending his NFL career.
The Weight of the Charge
The second-degree attempted murder charge Brown faces in Florida carries a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 if convicted. The case now moves to Miami, where prosecutors will determine how to proceed once Brown is in local custody. This development marks the most serious legal accusation against Brown to date, overshadowing his previous civil and criminal matters.
A Career Marked by Highs and Lows
Antonio Brown's football career was nothing short of spectacular on the field. Over 12 years in the NFL, he amassed 928 receptions, over 12,000 receiving yards, and 83 touchdowns. He earned four first-team All-Pro selections and won a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, his career was also marked by controversy and off-field issues, including a brief and tumultuous stint with the Oakland Raiders and a short tenure with the New England Patriots, which ended after just one game.
What Lies Ahead
The combination of Brown's high-profile sports legacy, his claims of CTE-related impairment, and the serious nature of the attempted murder charge creates a compelling narrative. The case raises questions about accountability, the impact of brain injuries on behavior, and the challenges faced by athletes transitioning out of professional sports.
For now, Brown remains in custody in New Jersey, awaiting transfer to Miami to face trial. The legal proceedings will undoubtedly attract significant attention, not only because of Brown's celebrity status but also due to the serious allegations and the dramatic circumstances surrounding the case.
References: Former NFL Player Antonio Brown Extradited to U.S. to Face Attempted Murder Charge | Ex-NFL star Antonio Brown arrested on attempted murder charge | Antonio Brown arrested on attempted murder charge, extradited to U.S.
