The UFC will not allow BJ Penn to return to the Octagon "until more details are determined" amid allegations the former world champion assaulted a woman in 2015.
Penn's return has been highly anticipated in the MMA community. He had planned on fighting as part of next month's UFC 197.
MORE: Ronda Rousey: People on Internet are evil | Lesner: Ronda must learn to lose
The mixed martial arts organization released a statement Thursday:
"UFC is aware of the recent allegations made against BJ Penn. The organization requires all athletes who compete in the UFC to act in an ethical and responsible manner, as detailed in the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy. UFC will not tolerate violations of the policy. Every athlete is deserving of proper review and this situation, as with any serious allegation, will be investigated by an independent party and thoroughly reviewed by the UFC. The UFC organization will also cooperate with any law enforcement investigation. In light of the serious allegations, UFC has postponed plans to book Penn for an upcoming bout until more details are determined."UFC holds athletes who compete in the organization to the highest standard and will continue to take appropriate action, if and when warranted. It is important to note that Penn is considered innocent until proven guilty and UFC is not prejudging this matter."
Penn, 37, has not been charged and says the allegations aren't true. The case is under investigation on Hilo, where the alleged incident took place, Hawaii News Now reported. An initial police report was made Tuesday in Ohio before the case was sent to law enforcement in Hawaii.
A former editor at BJPenn.com claims the fighter sexually assaulted his girlfriend.