The Ultimate Fighter Finalist Stephan Bonnar Passes Away at Age of 45

The UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar breathed his last as he passes away on Saturday, December 24 reportedly due to heart ailments.

Bonnar popularly knowns as ‘The American Psycho" gave many iconic moments to MMA fans over the years. His fight against Forrest Griffin in the finale of the first season of The Ultimate Fighter is regarded as the stepping stone in the development of the sport worldwide.

Bonnar and Griffin were involved in a gruesome match with the bout swinging back and forth between them. Both fighters had their moments but it was Griffin who took the honours at the end of the day.

Despite that loss, the UFC president Dana White and the fighting fraternity showered a heap of praise on Bonnar for his resilient display.

Bonnar was last seen in action against Tito Ortiz at Bellator 131 in 2014. He retired from the sport with a professional record of 15-9.

Bonnar shared the ring with the likes of Jon Jones, Rashad Evans, Mark Coleman, and the aforementioned Forrest Grifin during his time as an active fighter.

As the MMA community mourns the death of the legend, the UFC shared a quote from the company president Dana White who paid tribute to Bonnar for his services.

“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, and related to him and he always gave them his best. He will be missed.”

Here you can rewatch that iconic match between Bonnar and Griffin.