Oklahoma running back Joe Mixon says 'I'm sorry' for punching woman

Oklahoma star running back Joe Mixon, who missed the 2014 season after being charged with a misdemeanor, issued an apology on Tuesday night directed at the woman who he punched in the face at a Norman restaurant two years ago.

"For the last two years, my lawyers have advised me against speaking publicly about an incident that occurred very shortly after I arrived in Norman," Mixon wrote in a statement to The Oklahoman. "Today, I want to say what everyone deserves to hear from me about this matter: I am sorry."

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Earlier this week, a federal judge in Oklahoma City dismissed two-thirds of a lawsuit filed against Mixon.

"I apologize to Amelia Molitor and the friends who were with her that night," he wrote. "I apologize to my teammates, coaches, the University of Oklahoma, and its fans. I apologize to my family and friends. I realize I let a lot of people down. I apologize to all those I disappointed or hurt."

Molitor, who claims she has gotten hate mail because of Mixon's popularity as one of the best football players in the country, suffered several fractured bones in her face that led to an eight-hour surgery and forced her to attend classes with her jaw wired shut. In a civil lawsuit, she said the incident and its aftermath has led to emotional distress.

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Mixon, who was 18 at the time of the incident, explained racial slurs and being away from home for the first time led to his regretted actions.

"I believe that, over time, I can prove that my past mistakes do not represent who I really am," he wrote. "I promise everyone willing to give me the chance that I will work harder and continue to better myself as an individual and community member. I want to be a role model on and off the field."

Under a plea agreement with the Cleveland County district attorney, Mixon completed one year of probation, 100 hours of community service and anger management counseling.

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