The mixed martial arts (MMA) community is mourning the loss of several fighters was taken to the hospital, where she later died. The event’s organizers stated that all competitors are prepared for the have recently passed away under various tragic circumstances.
Hakaraia Wilson
On January 1, 2025, 26-year-old New Zealand MMA fighter Hakaraia Wilson died suddenly after attending the Rhythm and Vines music festival in Gisborne, New Zealand. Authorities have stated that his death is not considered suspicious and has been referred to the coroner for further investigation. Wilson began his professional MMA career in 2020, achieving a 4-3 record, with his last fight in October 2024. He was well-regarded in his community, and tributes have poured in from peers and fans honoring his legacy.
Philip Keller
In a separate incident, 43-year-old professional MMA fighter Philip Keller from Florida was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the 2021 killing of his fiancée, Alicia Campitelli. Keller pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, grand theft, and tampering with evidence. The incident stemmed from an argument over Keller’s drug use, during which he shot Campitelli multiple times. Following the murder, he used her debit card to purchase drugs and disposed of the gun in a canal. Keller initially called 911 claiming a robbery but later confessed the crime to a friend in a recorded call. Campitelli’s family expressed their deep trauma and loss during the sentencing hearing.
Guilherme ‘Bomba’ Vasconcelos
Brazilian MMA fighter Guilherme “Bomba” Vasconcelos, known for his time in UFC and Bellator, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 38 in Los Angeles. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Vasconcelos began his professional career in 2012 and participated in “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil.” He achieved ten victories and six losses in his MMA career and was also known for his relationship with singer Demi Lovato. He leaves behind a one-year-old daughter from his relationship with model Kayla Lauren.
Zach Doran
An 18-year-old MMA fighter, Zach Doran, died after collapsing during a sparring session at his local gym. Initially thought to be caused by a physical blow, it was later revealed that his collapse was not injury-related. Doran, who was in excellent health with no known underlying conditions, regularly consumed energy drinks and pre-workout supplements, which his girlfriend suspects contributed to his sudden cardiac arrest. After 10 days in a coma, his parents made the difficult decision to turn off his life support. His father is now advocating for gyms to have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to prevent similar tragedies in the future. This incident highlights the potential dangers of energy drinks and excessive caffeine consumption, especially among young and healthy individuals.
Andre Mussi
Former MMA fighter Andre Mussi, 48, passed away suddenly after collapsing following a training session in Brazil. Mussi was taken to the hospital, where his death was later confirmed. During his career, he achieved 11 wins in 16 MMA fights before retiring in 2010. After his fighting career, Mussi became a manager for other fighters and continued training in bodybuilding and jiu-jitsu. His friend, jiu-jitsu sensei Renato Velame, praised Mussi for his contributions to modern MMA and for helping to professionalize the sport.
Iuri Lapicus
MMA fighter Iuri Lapicus, 27, died after a motorcycle accident in Italy. Lapicus competed in the ONE Championship promotion and had a professional record of 14 wins, 2 losses, and 1 no contest. He was in a coma following the accident and passed away in the hospital. Lapicus was born in Moldova and lived in Italy, and he had challenged for the ONE welterweight championship in 2020.
Alexander Pisarev
Russian MMA fighter Alexander Pisarev, 33, was found dead, reportedly from food poisoning. Pisarev died in his sleep, and his death was believed to be the result of food poisoning, though an autopsy was to be conducted for confirmation. Pisarev was a Moscow champion in hand-to-hand combat and grappling, and he was also a finalist in the MMA European Championships. He fought five fights in MMA, securing three victories and two losses.
Elias Theodorou
Former UFC fighter Elias Theodorou died at age 34 after a battle with colon cancer that had metastasized. Theodorou was known for his charismatic personality and for campaigning successfully for the right to use medical marijuana as an athlete. He had a professional record of 19 wins and 3 losses and was a prominent figure in advocating for the use of medical cannabis in sports.
Saeideh Aletaha
An amateur MMA fighter, Saeideh Aletaha, 26, died after sustaining a brain injury during a bout in the U.K. She was participating in a “Fast and Furious Fight Series” event when she collapsed and was taken to the hospital, where she later died. The event’s organizers stated that all competitors are prepared for the possibility of injury, but such incidents are rare. Investigations into the events surrounding her death were ongoing at the time.
These incidents highlight the inherent risks associated with combat sports and the importance of safety measures, medical preparedness, and awareness of health issues within the MMA community. The MMA world mourns the loss of these
