Kevin Randleman (top)

By FCF Staff

The MMA world is reeling from reports that former UFC heavyweight champion, Kevin Randleman, has passed away at the age of 44.

According to a report from journalist Jeremy Botter, Randleman recently went to hospital due to pneumonia, before suffering fatal heart failure.

The powerful wrestler made his pro MMA debut back in 1996, and went on to win the UFC’s heavyweight title in 1999. Over the years, the charismatic fighter fought for organizations like PRIDE, Strikeforce and Sengoku.

Randleman’s last bout took place in 2011 and he retired with a record of 17-16.  He is survived by his wife and three children.

All of us here at Full Contact Fighter extend our deepest condolences to Randleman’s friends and family.