Ex-UFC fighter Suman Mokhtarian Murdered in Sydney: Investigation Underway

Tragic loss in the mixed martial arts world: Suman Mokhtarian murdered

The mixed martial arts (MMA) world is in mourning following the murder of Suman Mokhtarian, former UFC fighter and renowned coach. Australian police are investigating the incident as a targeted attack, which occurred in Sydney. Mokhtarian, 33, was found dead on Wednesday afternoon in Riverstone, after being shot. Emergency services attended the scene, but unfortunately, they could not save him. Mokhtarian competed in the UFC in 2018 and 2019, before turning to coaching. He played a key role in the development of MMA talent at the Australian Top Team, alongside his brother Ashkan Mokhtarian. The authorities established a crime scene and began an investigation to clarify the circumstances of the shooting. Inquiries are being conducted to determine if there is any connection between this incident and the fire of a vehicle reported in the same area.

A man has died in a shooting in a public place in western Sydney today.

New South Wales Police Statement

A Mokhtarian student, Jesse Swain, shared a moving tribute on Instagram.

“I couldn’t sleep tonight after hearing the news. Suman believed in me more than I believed in myself, I owe him everything I’ve done in MMA. Anyone who knew him personally knows how passionate and invigorating he was and expected the best from you. He pushed me to heights I never thought I’d reach when I started, stopped me from quitting in late 2024 right before he gave me professional opportunities and personally told me my potential in the game. I will make sure to fulfill that potential for him.”

In February 2024, Mokhtarian was the target of an alleged assassination attempt in front of the Australian Top Team gym in Wentworthville, Sydney.