New Zealand MMA star, 26, dies suddenly after attending music festival

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A 26-year-old mixed martial arts fighter from New Zealand has been cut down in his prime.

Hakaraia Wilson reportedly died on Jan. 1 after attending the Rhythm and Vines Festival in Gisborne, New Zealand.

According to Te Ao News, local police said that they were called to attend to a “sudden death” on New Year’s Day, but there is no indication that foul play was involved.

“The death is not suspicious and has been referred to the Coroner,” police told the outlet in a statement.

No cause of death for the athlete was shared.

Wilson started his amateur MMA career in 2020, racking up six wins with just one loss while competing as a welterweight.

After turning pro in 2023, he amassed a record of four wins and three losses. In his final match, Wilson beat Mark Alcoba by technical knockout in Bali last October, but apparently suffered an arm injury.

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He posted on Instagram that he had undergone surgery and was looking forward to a quick return.

“Surgery done,” he wrote on Instagram at the time. “Be back asap.”

As news of Wilson’s passing spread, fellow MMA fighters posted tributes on social media.

Fellow Kiwi fighter Israel Adesanya by posted a video of Wilson training and enjoying time with friends on his Instagram Story with the caption “You’ll be missed my brother.”

Dan Hooker shared the same clip while writing “Fly high brother.”

“It’s with profound sadness that we share the passing of a true pillar of our family and community—our brother, Hakaraia Wilson,” the Oliver MMA and Fitness Gym wrote on its Instagram page. “There are no words that can truly capture what we’re all feeling right now.

“Haks, your legacy will live on in each of us — your smile, your laughter, your warmth, and your warrior spirit. Rest easy, knowing your time here, though far too short, left a mark that will never fade,” the caption continued.