Stephan Bonnar, TUF 1 finalist, dead at 45
Stephan Bonnar, 45, a finalist on the original season of the UFC’s ‘Ultimate Fighter’ has died. The UFC announced the fighter’s death on Saturday. Reports state that Bonnar died two days ago on December 22.
“The UFC family is saddened by the passing of UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.”
The UFC family is saddened by the passing of UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
— UFC (@ufc) December 24, 2022
The official cause of Bonnar’s death is pending, reports state that the cause is “presumed heart complications.”
“Stephan Bonnar was one of the most important fighters to ever compete in the Octagon,” stated UFC President Dana White in a release announcing Bonnar’s death. “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.”
“The American Psycho” Bonnar is credited with helping to save the UFC from financial ruin. His Ultimate Fighter Season 1 Finale bout against eventual tournament winner, Forrest Griffin, was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.
Bonnar’s pro MMA record was 15-9.
