Kiwi MMA fighter Hakaraia Wilson has died aged 26.
Te Ao News reports he died suddenly in Gisborne yesterday morning.
“The death is not suspicious and has been referred to the coroner,” police said.
Wilson was in Gisborne to attend Rhythm and Vines, Te Ao News reported.
Wilsonbegan his amateur career in 2020 and had a 4-3 pro MMA record. His last bout was a win in October over Philippines opponent Mark Alcoba at the Canggu Fight Night 32 event in Bali.
His most recent post on Instagram was after the victory, the fourth win in his last five bouts.
“Took an L in May, learned from it & turned da page. Been waiting a minute for a chance to wash dat taste out of my mouth n show how much I’ve grown. Shout out to my coaches n my people for havin my back thru it all. Forever in debt. I love this s*** & I’m here to stay.”
Wilson was understood to have been part of Oliver MMA gym. Founder Steve Oliver shared a photo on Facebook and many posted messages of condolences, RNZ reported.
More recently, he trained at Soma Fight Club in the Indonesian city of Bali.
“With you always”, the club posted, alongside a broken heart emoji and a photo of Wilson on its Instagram. “Rest easy young warrior, always in our hearts forever more. We will carry you with us into battle always. “Until we see you again, we love you Hakaraia.”
