UFC legend Stephan Bonnar has died at 45 years old.
The UFC announced the sad news on Christmas Eve, revealing that the Hall of Famer hugely credited by UFC President Dana White as part of the success of UFC, had passed away on December 22.
"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."
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
Bonnar was a contestant on the first season of The Ultimate Fighter, where he'd make it to the finals. Despite losing a unanimous decision to Forrest Griffin, Bonnar would also get a UFC contract as a result of what has went down as one of the greatest fights in MMA history. UFC President Dana White has often said the show and that fight particularly was a huge aid in the UFC's current thriving success. The fight itself was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2013.
Bonnar ended his MMA career in 2014 with a 15-9 record. He'd also went 8-8 in the UFC during his seven year tenure there.
"The American Psycho" also made several pro wrestling appearances. In 2017, he participated in a battle royal for Smashmouth Pro Wrestling. Later that year, he'd take on both Sho Tanaka and "Speedball" Mike Bailey. In 2019, Bonnar had a couple of matches against Moose in IMPACT Wrestling.
Stephan Bonnar leaves behind a son. We send our condolences to his friends, family and fans.
