A 41-day-long celebrity marriage is coming to an end between reality star Evelyn Lozada and football star Chad Johnson, amidst dueling reports of an argument that led to a heat-butting incident, as reported by the Huffington Post and several other media outlets.
Lozada called an end to the short union on August 13 and officially filed for divorce, according to her representative from VH1 and her attorney, Michael B. Gilden.
In a prepared statement Gilden told television reporters, "Given the recent events that have taken place, Evelyn has decided to file for divorce and move on with her life."
Johnson was arrested in the incident and also released from his contract with the Miami Dolphins.
Johnson issued his own statement on his official website, OCNN, that read, "I am going to let the legal process run its course. I wish Evelyn nothing but the best, I have no negative words to say about her, the only thing I can say is I love her very much. I will continue to be positive and stay training hard for another opportunity in the NFL. I appreciate all my fans and supporters and if I have disappointed you in any way, you have my sincerest apologies. Once again I will continue to stay positive and appreciate all the support during this tough period in my life."
On Saturday, August 11, the couple had an argument after Lozada had discovered a receipt – allegedly for condoms purchased by Johnson. The two began arguing in a restaurant, continued the fighting on their drive home and ended as they exited the car in their driveway.
Lozada claimed that Johnson head-butted her in the driveway.
A neighbor called 911 to report "a high-profile" person told Lozada to wipe blood from her head, Lozada is then overheard saying that Johnson head butted her and the neighbor ascertained that the injury would require stitches.
When police arrived on scene Johnson contradicted Lozada's story – it was Lozada, he contended, that had head butted him.
Lozada's statement reads, "I am deeply disappointed that Chad has failed to take responsibility for his actions and made false accusations against me, it is my sincere hope that he seeks the help he needs to overcome his troubles. Domestic violence is not okay and hopefully my taking a stand will help encourage other women to break their silence as well."
Previously Lozada had received fame on the VH1 show "Basketball Wives" for attacking other cast mates. Johnson met and pursued Lozada during his time on the same show. Their spin-off show, "Ev and Ocho", due to debut on September 3, has since been shelved.
Lozada stated that the couple has a premarital agreement, and is seeking only attorney fees from Johnson.
Seeking a divorce from a 40-day or 40-year marriage, coupled or not with domestic violence, requires that you contact a family law attorney. The right attorney can help you protect your assets – allowing you to move forward with your life.