The Team of former two-division UFC champion BJ Penn has released a statement following allegations from his former partner.

“BJ is in a highly-contested child custody case involving his two young daughters. The order of protection has made serious allegations against BJ.  The allegations are so, misleading, hurtful and false that any further comment by BJ or about BJ would cause more damage to the well-being of his children and potentially further inflame the pending custody proceedings. BJ and his family ask that you respect their privacy at this very difficult time.”

BJ Penn is scheduled to return to the octagon at May’s UFC 237 event for a lightweight bout against fellow veteran Clay Guida. Learn how to watch UFC 237 here