Mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Hakaraia Wilson has tragically died suddenly, authorities have revealed.
The New Zealand-born United States-based Jiu-Jitsu star was just 26 years old when he died unexpectedly.
Wilson had recently returned from attending the Rhythm and Vines music festival held in Gisborne to celebrate New Year.
However, New Zealand police said Wilson suffered a “sudden death” at some point in the last few days.
Police said the death of the young athlete, full name Te Hakaraia O Te Rangi Wilson, is not being treated as suspicious.
However, no cause of death has been revealed.
All other details regarding his sudden passing have been withheld by New Zealand authorities.
Wilson was experienced in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA.
He was based full-time in the United States.
Touching tributes are now being paid to the Māori fighter, including by Oliver MMA and Fitness Gym, where he was a member.
Steve Oliver wrote: “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.”
Photos showed him training at Soma Fight Club on the Indonesian island of Bali.
Soma also paid tribute to Wilson, saying on Instagram: “With you always.
“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.”
Pasifika media outlet TheCoconetTV wrote a tribute to the fighter on their Instagram page.
“A young, talented & wise Hakaraia Wilson,” the post reads.
“Our heartfelt Condolences to the aiga (family) and whanau (family) of Hakaraia Wilson who was a promising young MMA fighter.
“May you rest with the ancestors you spoke so fondly of.”
In November, Wilson had undergone surgery on his left arm.
He told fans he would “be back asap” in a subsequent Instagram post.
Friends, family, and fans paid tribute to Wilson in the comments on his Instagram account.
One follower wrote: “Rest easy bro.”
Another posted: “My Bro love you man may you rest in peace.”
In a 2020 interview with Te Ao Māori News, Wilson paid tribute to his dad for getting him into the sport at an early age.
“He was a fighter back in the day and, as I was growing up, I’d go to his training and watch him,” he said.
“From then I knew what I wanted to do and so, without my dad, I probably wouldn’t have chosen to do this sport.”
