“That’s when I slapped her” - NFL star’s estranged wife reveals why she hit a woman she suspected of sleeping with her husband

Kelly Davis, the former wife of retired NFL linebacker Thomas Davis, has been charged with assault following a confrontation with chiropractor Laura Watterson in Charlotte.

Police records state the incident happened on August 26, inside Watterson’s office. 

According to court documents, Kelly arrived and accused Watterson of having an affair with her estranged husband. 

The documents say she began shouting while Watterson was with a patient.

Watterson told authorities that when staff asked Kelly to leave, she was struck in the chest. 

She added that as she tried to escort Kelly out, she was hit again, knocking her glasses off, and then once more on the head.

However, Kelly gave a different account. 

Speaking to TMZ Sports, she admitted striking Watterson but said it was in self-defence. 

“That’s when I slapped her,” she said, claiming Watterson grabbed her arm and dug her nails into it. Kelly also admitted she hit Watterson again after being removed from the office.

Davis’ ex-wife also dismissed claims of jealousy as the motive behind her action.

“I’m not jealous,” she said.  “I don’t want that man back ever in my life.”

According to TMZ, a warrant was issued on 29 August. 

Kelly was arrested on September 3, and charged with one count of misdemeanour assault and battery.

 She has since been released.

Her lawyer, James J. Exum,  denied the allegations.

 “We believe completely in Kelly’s innocence and we look forward to challenging the false allegations once we have a court date,” he said.

Kelly and Thomas Davis married in 2008. 

The couple have two children. 

In February 2025, Kelly filed a civil case stating they separated in March 2024.

She accused him of engaging in sexual conduct with at least six women during the marriage.

Thomas Davis was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2005 and played 13 seasons with the team. 

He also spent time with the Los Angeles Chargers and Washington before retiring in 2021.