Former UFC middleweight fighter and Green Beret Tim Kennedy acknowledged a “serious mistake” regarding claims that he was awarded a Bronze Star with a V for valor during his military service.
Bronze Stars with Valor are given to military personnel who demonstrate exceptional heroism in combat.
Kennedy shared his acknowledgment on X on Tuesday, taking full “responsibility” for the misunderstanding.
“We want to take complete responsibility for serious mistakes,” Kennedy stated. “For years, I’ve made official statements and given interviews that may have unintentionally misled people about my military service. Most notably, I suggested, either directly or indirectly, that I was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor. That’s not true, and I have no excuse.”
Concerns regarding Kennedy’s military records resurfaced a few months ago when the Anti-Hero Podcast, hosted by veterans, labeled Kennedy’s book, Scars and Stripes, as “false.” The podcast plans to release another episode on this issue soon.
Kennedy defended himself, suggesting that some media had misrepresented his records without his knowledge.
“I don’t have a Bronze Star with a V device,” he had previously stated on Instagram, adding that he was unaware of articles online that referenced such an award.
However, a video posted in late June by Valhalla VFT, featuring ex-Green Beret Nathan Cornaccia, seemed to push Kennedy toward an apology.
“That recognition is sacred and signifies extraordinary courage under fire, as well as the sacrifices made,” Kennedy expressed. “I sincerely apologize to those who truly earned it and to their families. My remarks were disrespectful of their service, and I fully own that.”
“I was young when I first entered the public eye and was unprepared for the scrutiny that followed—but that’s no excuse. I should have known better. I couldn’t uphold the standards I advocate for, and I failed to respond appropriately.”
Kennedy committed to a higher standard moving forward.
“This apology isn’t an end; it’s just the beginning. I’m dedicated to rebuilding trust through honest reflection, accountability, and ongoing service to the community I’ve misrepresented.”
“From here on out, my words will reflect truth, humility, and respect. I realize that words alone won’t heal disappointment or restore trust. I appreciate your patience as I aim to prove myself through actions over time.”
Tim Kennedy holds an 18-6 record across his fights in organizations like UFC, Bellator, and Strikeforce. His last fight was at UFC 206 in December 2016, where he lost by TKO to Kelvin Gastelum.
