War Machine lashes out as judge denies motion to drop attempted murder charges

Jonathan Koppenhaver suffered a setback Wednesday in the case against his alleged brutal assault on former girlfriend Christy Mack.

The former mixed martial artist, who had his name legally changed to War Machine, attempted to have four of his 34 charges dismissed on Wednesday in Clark County, Nevada.

But District Judge Elissa Cadish refused to throw out two counts of attempted murder, one count of burglary, and one count of sexual assault, saying there was enough evidence for the trial to go forward.

At one point during the hearing, an angry Koppenhaver caused a disturbance in the courtroom, demanding a lie detector test. After order was restored, Cadish denied the request.

A statement issued by his legal team acknowledged the incident.

"The judge also rejected Mr. Koppenhaver's request to take a polygraph examination regarding the alleged charges," the statement read in part. "While this did elicit an outburst from Jonathan, it should be noted he is passionate about the truth being told, and would like to use all possible opportunities to provide it."

Koppenhaver will remain in the High Desert State Prison north of Las Vegas as he awaits his September trial for the alleged Aug. 2014 assault on Mack and her friend, Corey Thomas. The attempted murder charges carry potential life sentences.