Former UFC fighter Stephan Bonnar dies at 45

Stephan Bonnar, a finalist in the first season of UFC’s The Ultimate Fighter, has passed away.

UFC confirmed the news on social media Saturday afternoon, writing on their website that Bonnar had died from “presumed heart complications” while at work. MMA Fighting reported that a law enforcement source with knowledge of the situation confirmed he had died on December 22.

“The UFC family is saddened by the passing of UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar,” UFC wrote on social media. “We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.”

Bonnar was a finalist in the first season of The Ultimate Fighter back in 2005, losing to Forrest Griffin via unanimous decision. The fight was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2013. He continued to compete in the UFC through 2012, when he retired following a loss to Anderson Silva. He competed in one more fight, losing to Tito Ortiz via split decision at Bellator 131 in 2014.

"Stephan Bonnar was one of the most important fighters to ever compete in the Octagon," UFC President Dana White said in a statement. "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."

Bonnar also made appearances in pro wrestling, including independent appearances for House of Glory and IWS in 2017. He also appeared in Impact Wrestling in 2019, losing to Moose at that year's Victory Road event.