Former MMA Fighter Testifies He Acted to Protect Friend in Fatal Bar Fight

Ross Johnson, a former mixed martial arts fighter, took the stand on Wednesday to defend his actions during a fatal bar fight that left one man dead. Charged with manslaughter and aggravated battery, Johnson claimed he had no intention of harming the victim and was merely trying to protect his friend during the altercation. The incident occurred in Panama City, Fla., on April 9, 2023, at the Coyote Ugly Saloon, where a fight broke out between two groups inside the bar and spilled into the parking lot.

During testimony, Johnson described how he intervened after seeing his friend John Chester being targeted by Dayvon Larry, who was later pronounced dead. He asserted that he acted solely to protect Chester, who he believed was defenseless at the time. Surveillance video played during the trial showed Johnson approaching the scene and pushing Larry away from Chester. Johnson maintained that he only pushed Larry but did not strike him, despite his MMA training and nickname “The Juggernaut.”

Prosecutors pressed Johnson on whether he remembered striking Larry, highlighting his fighting background to suggest possible intent. Johnson denied hitting the victim, emphasizing that his actions were purely defensive. He also admitted to consuming multiple drinks that evening, which contributed to gaps in his memory of the incident. After testifying, Johnson’s defense rested their case, leaving the outcome of the trial in the hands of the jury.

The case has drawn attention due to its violent nature and the defendant’s professional history as an MMA fighter. As the trial continues, questions remain about the circumstances surrounding Larry’s death and whether Johnson’s actions were justified or exceeded reasonable force.