War Machine: I Was 'Ambushed' by Corey Thomas, Mack Lied to Protect Her 'Image'

Former UFC and Bellator welterweight War Machine, also known as Jon Koppenhaver, maintains that Corey Thomas attacked him at love interest Christy Mack's home on August 9 and that Mack is lying about the scenario to protect her "image."

This is according to a letter War Machine wrote from jail, which was obtained by TMZ (warning: strong language). In this letter, he elaborates on his side of the story, which is the polar opposite of what the police report from Las Vegas says (via MMA Fighting). 

Part of the letter reads:

"

I can't even believe this s--t; the way she is lying is crazy bro! I mean just like 2 days earlier she's telling me to hurry up and get her a ring and s--t, how do you go from that to flat out lies to protect some other dude and her 'image'? ... I dunno if they heard me come into the house or what but dude straight ambushed me as soon as I entered the bedroom. I can't get into all the details but that s--t was self-defense 100%!!

"

The Ultimate Fighter alumnus is facing a whopping 32 charges and a possible life sentence in prison if convicted after the Clark County District Attorney submitted an amended complaint, although the competitor claims "20 of my charges are burglary related" in the letter.

Back in August when he was still on the run from authorities, the Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt tweeted that he was innocent in the situation. 

"

I'm not a bad guy, I went to surprise my gf, help her set up her show and to give her an engagement ring and ended up fighting for my life.

— War Machine (@WarMachine170) August 11, 2014"

Mack, well-known for her work as an adult-film star, suffered horrific injuries (warning: graphic content) from the alleged incident but has been on the road to recovery for weeks now.

"

I am out of surgery and resting now. I am in a little pain, but I'll be fine in a few days!

— Christy Mack (@ChristyMack) October 1, 2014"

War Machine heads back to court for his preliminary hearing on October 17. 

Is it possible that War Machine's side of the story is accurate, or is he trying to paint a more favorable picture of the situation in order to avoid spending the rest of his life behind bars?

John Heinis is a featured columnist for Bleacher Report. He is also the MMA editor for eDraft.com.