Miami, FL — Former NFL wide receiver Antonio Brown was returned to the United States on Thursday after being extradited from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where authorities had located him earlier this year. Brown, 37, is now set to face serious criminal charges in Miami-Dade County, including second-degree attempted murder.
According to police records, the charge stems from an incident in June at a celebrity boxing event. Investigators say Brown was involved in an altercation with Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu and later confronted him outside the venue. Cell phone video referenced in an arrest warrant allegedly shows Brown holding a firearm and approaching Nantambu on a sidewalk.
The footage reportedly captures two gunshots fired within close range. Nantambu ducked as one bullet was discharged and later told investigators he believed he was grazed near the neck, leaving him fearful for his life.
If convicted, Brown could face a maximum sentence of 15 years, though legal experts suggest the actual sentence would likely be shorter depending on the outcome of negotiations, evidence presentation, and Brown’s cooperation.
Extradition Questions
While the United States and the UAE do not have a formal extradition treaty, both nations signed a mutual legal assistance agreement in 2022. The agreement allows cooperation in criminal investigations, judicial matters, and prosecutions. Diplomatic ties between the two countries have remained generally positive.
It remains unclear whether Brown pursued legal avenues in Dubai to challenge his removal, or whether his visa status may have contributed to his transfer back to the U.S. In some cases, extradition battles can last years, particularly if defendants claim political targeting — something not observed publicly in Brown’s case.
Legal and Personal Troubles
Brown’s post-NFL years have been overshadowed by recurring legal and behavioral issues. The former Pittsburgh Steelers star, who also had short stints with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, previously faced allegations involving sexual assault, domestic violence, and battery.
During the 2024 presidential campaign, Brown appeared at rallies in support of former President Donald Trump. Despite speculation among supporters about political favors, presidential pardons do not apply to state-level charges such as the ones Brown currently faces.
A Career Overshadowed
At his peak, Brown was widely regarded as one of the most dynamic receivers in league history — earning four First-Team All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl appearances. Yet his off-field controversies and abrupt exits from teams dramatically halted a career once destined for the Hall of Fame conversation.
Brown is expected to appear in court in the coming days, where his defense team will have the opportunity to address the allegations and request bail.