Fighter dies following MMA match outside Edmonton 

The Alberta RCMP are currently investigating the tragic death of a fighter that occurred following a charity mixed martial arts event just outside of Edmonton this past Saturday. The 33-year-old man from Edmonton passed away after participating in the combative sports event at a community center in Enoch, Alberta, located on the outskirts of Edmonton.

Officials were informed on Monday morning that the fighter had unfortunately passed away sometime after his bout on Saturday evening. RCMP Cpl. Troy Savinkoff stated that the investigation is still in its early stages, and details are limited at this time as investigators review the circumstances surrounding the death.

This devastating incident comes shortly after the release of a fatality inquiry report earlier this month regarding the death of fighter Tim Hague, who tragically passed away following a match in Edmonton back in 2017. The judge’s report highlighted the need for significant changes to the regulations surrounding combative sports in Alberta.

The charity event, organized by Ultra MMA, featured approximately 36 novice fighters, as advertised online. The U.K.-based company aims to provide new fighters with the opportunity to participate in the sport, offering two months of free training at a local gym before competing in a “glamorous black-tie event.” The company ensures that fighters receive the same level of medical care and regulation as they would at professional events.

In a statement to CBC, Ultra Events Canada extended their condolences to the fighter’s family and mentioned that the event was sanctioned by a municipal combative sports commission in central Alberta. However, questions have arisen among fighters who were scheduled to compete at the event regarding the regulation and organization of the fights, as well as the level of medical supervision provided to the fighter who tragically passed away.

Charles Proulx, who was set to compete at the event, expressed concerns about the safety measures in place and the supervision of the fights. He described the deceased fighter as a friendly and energetic individual who was eager to compete. Proulx, along with other fighters, had undergone the two months of free training sessions provided by Ultra MMA in preparation for the event.

Proulx recounted entering the arena during the match and noticing that his friend was in a deteriorating condition. Despite concerns about the fighter’s well-being, the match continued until he was eventually carried out of the ring. Proulx emphasized the importance of investigating the circumstances surrounding the event to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Natalija Rajkovic, another fighter who trained for the event, expressed her shock and sadness over the fighter’s passing. She highlighted the lack of adequate preparation and supervision for the first-time fighters participating in the event. Rajkovic emphasized the need for transparency regarding the event’s sanctioning and regulations to ensure the safety of all fighters involved.

As the investigation unfolds, both fighters and the public are calling for further scrutiny into the circumstances surrounding the event and the measures in place to protect the fighters. The tragic death of the fighter has sparked concerns about the safety and regulation of combative sports events, prompting calls for enhanced oversight and accountability within the industry.