UFC Hall of Famer and legend in MMA, Stephan Bonnar has passed away at 45. The UFC broke the news Saturday, announcing,”The UFC family is saddened by the tragic passing of UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar Thursday from presumed heart complications while at work.” Reports say that he died a couple days ago, and there is no official cause of death yet.
Stephan Bonnar’s Career
UFC also shared brief details about Stephan’s career, writing, “Stephan Bonnar was one of the most important fighters to ever compete in the Octagon,” as per UFC President Dana White. “His fight with Forrest Griffin changed the sport forever, and he will never be forgotten. The fans loved him, related to him and he always gave them his best. He will be missed.”
Stephan Bonnar – UFC Hall Of Famer Passes Away At 45
The late Stephan Bonnar was an OG in UFC. In 2015, he competed in the very first season of ‘The Ultimate Fighter,’ and went all the way to the finale. Even though he lost his Light Heavyweight fight against Forrest Griffin, he bagged a contract with UFC.
Stephan had a rematch with Griffin, and went on to fight Jon Jones, Mark Coleman, Krzysztof Soszynski, Igor Pokrajac, Kyle Kingsbury, Anderson Silva and some other big names in the sport. His record with UFC was 15-9-0. Stephan retired in 2012, and in the following year, Dana White announced that he would be inducted into the HOF. Stephan Bonnar also wrestle professionally – he fought for leagues like Impact Wrestling.
The deceased also fought with Bellator MMA after his retirement from UFC. Stephan Bonnar will be remembered for his legacy being one of the catalysts to help UFC grow into a big name today. He is also one of the sport’s greatest known fighters to date. Stephen Bonnar left behind his wife, Andrea, and their son Griffin.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TT8uGTvin1U
