The MMA community is mourning the loss of a promising talent.
Hakaraia Wilson, a decorated mixed martial arts fighter based in New Zealand, died in the late hours of Dec. 31, police told Te Ao News. He was 26.
In a statement to the outlet, authorities said they responded to a “sudden death” in Gisbourne in the early hours of Jan. 1. The 26-year-old had been visiting the New Zealand city to attend Rhythm and Vines music festival, which took place from Dec. 29 to Dec. 31.
“The death is not suspicious,” police added in a statement to Te Ao News, “and has been referred to the coroner.”
Wilson’s cause of death has not yet been shared. E! News reached out to reps for the fighter, but has not heard back.
Beginning his fighting career in 2020, the late 26-year-old was known for his skills in MMA fighting, as well as jiu-jitsu. Wilson was ranked #723 in his weight class, and #83 for the welterweight class, per Tapology. He last competed in October, where he bested Philippines native Mark Alcoba during a fight in Bali.
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