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 rep also reflected on his passing in a statement to E! News, noting that the athlete's "passion, dedication, and spirit left a mark on all who knew him."
"Hakaraia was a cultural figure for the Maori people," his rep shared, "representing his heritage with pride. He demonstrated the strength, determination, and resilience of his culture on an international stage, becoming a beacon of inspiration for the Maori community and beyond."
Wilson’s cause of death has not yet been shared.
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.
“Took an L in May, learned from it & turned da page,” Wilson wrote in a post on Instagram at the time. “Been waiting a minute for a chance to wash dat [sic] taste out of my mouth n show how much I’ve grown. Shout out to my coaches and my people for havin’ my back through it all. Forever in debt.”
He added, “I love this s--t.”
Following news of his death, the Bali-based Soma Fight Club shared condolences for the loss of Wilson.
“With you always,” the gym wrote in an Instagram post Jan. 1. “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.”