Former world 100m champion Fred Kerley has denied he was arrested as claimed for battery but because he exercised his right to remain silent until his lawyer was present after a "physical altercation".

Olympic sprint medalist Fred Kerley has been charged with battery in Florida for allegedly punching a female fellow athlete.

Twice Olympic 100m medallist Fred Kerley has been arrested for allegedly punching hurdler and ex-girlfriend Alaysha Johnson in the face, police said on Friday, and, as a result, he will not compete in the Grand Slam Track event in Miami this weekend.