Stephan Bonnar passed away on Thursday after ‘presumed heart complications’ while at work.
Bonnar is one of the most iconic figures in the sport, widely known for his fight with Forrest Griffin that elevated the UFC to new heights.
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The UFC confirmed his death in a statement early this morning.
UFC president, Dana White, paid tribute to Bonnar, labelling him as ‘one of the most important fighters to ever compete’.
“Stephan Bonnar was one of the most important fighters to ever compete in the Octagon,” said 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.”
Some of his fellow fighters and friends paid tribute to him on Twitter.
RIP Stephan Bonnar 🙏. True legend of the game. Will never forget that Forrest Griffin fight and how it inspired me. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/wEL2eRQCta
— Chris Weidman (@chrisweidman) December 25, 2022
Stephan Bonnar, you were one of the toughest & funniest guys I’ve ever met. You passed way too soon but accomplished so much in a short amount of time. You helped change this sport forever, inspired a whole generation of fighters & your impact will always be remembered. 💔 pic.twitter.com/LyYA5FzRmG
— Kenny Florian (@kennyflorian) December 25, 2022
Bonnar/Griffin changed the UFC forever! If you knew @StephanBonnar it was impossible not to love him, a loyal friend with a great sense of humor who once took over an entire floor of our hotel in Australia preparing his own kangaroo meal! RIP American Psycho, gone way too young! pic.twitter.com/KMPEADC1ZX
— Mike Goldberg (@GoldieOnTV) December 25, 2022