THE WORLD OF mixed martial arts is today mourning the death of Kevin Randleman.
Randleman’s family confirmed the sad news of his passing this morning via the former UFC champion’s Facebook page.
According to the statement, Randleman became ill while travelling on business and “un-exectedly passed due to complications from pneumonia”. Randleman, who was 44, is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and four children.
A native of Ohio, Randleman was an NCAA Division One All-American wrestler and two-time national champion, before he turned to mixed martial arts. He had the first of 33 professional fights in October 1996 and last competed in MMA in May 2011.
Randleman defeated Pete Williams to win the vacant UFC heavyweight title in 1999 and successfully defended the belt against Pedro Rizzo. He was later dethroned by Randy Couture.
He is perhaps best remembered for his fights against Mirko ‘Cro Cop’ Filipovic and Fedor Emelianenko in the Pride Heavyweight Grand Prix in 2004. Randleman caused a massive upset when he knocked out Cro Cop in the first round.
He was eliminated in the next stage of the Grand Prix by Fedor Emelianenko but not before executing this massive suplex against the Russian legend.
“With saddened hearts, the Randleman family confirms the passing of Kevin ‘The Monster’ Randleman,” read the Randleman family’s statement.
“Behind the name, was a gentle soul & loyal friend whom will be missed by many who loved him beyond the cage. The Ohio State University, UFC, MMA, & Sandusky, Ohio communities share in the loss of Kevin’s passing.”
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