Potential United Bermuda Party MP Tillman Darrell admitted punching a man at the Young Man's Social Club, but said he did so in self-defence.

Anonymous postings on political blogs across the Island alleged that Mr. Darrell, who will represent the UBP in the Pembroke South East constituency in the upcoming election, punched an older man.

The postings alleged that Mr. Darrell was involved in a political discussion with a group of men over 65 when suddenly Mr. Darrell punched a man, who fell to the floor.

The older man then reportedly left the club with an injury but Police showed up to take statements.

Police would not confirm if Mr. Darrell was involved in the incident on August 12, but did say they attended the Pembroke club and took statements about an alleged assault that took place.

A Police spokesman added that a man came to the Hamilton Police Station and made a complaint of being assaulted by a 41-year-old Pembroke man at the club.

The complainant was taken to the hospital and treated for two cuts around his eyes, one of which needed six stitches. The spokesman said an investigation was underway.

Last night Mr. Darrell said he did strike a man at the Young Man's Social Club on August 12. But he claimed it was in self-defence.

"This man, who I do not know, appeared outside my office five months ago and attacked me. He has said he wants to ruin my political career. Five months pass by and I am with my cousin at Social Club and this man threatened me again.

"I punched him but it was totally self-defence."

Mr. Darrell also denied having any political discussion with the gentleman and said he was saddened to see an inaccurate version circulating the web.

"It seems to be a situation where black men who join the UBP get more grief from black members of the community," he said. "And sometimes that includes threats."

UBP Leader Michael Dunkley said he was aware of the incident and that Mr. Darrell had been upfront about it. He added that it was not his policy to prejudge anyone and that it was important to let the Police do their job.

Mr. Darrell, 41, who was raised in Middletown, Pembroke, was announced as a UBP candidate in May. He is an avid footballer and currently works as a Network Engineer with Telecommunications Engineering and Consulting Services in Bermuda

When he was announced as the UBP candidate he said: "I know some of the social problems and the violent problems that have existed for a long time. With the people's help, I want to make sure they are eradicated."