Suman Mokhtarian: Police Provide Update As Former UFC Star Was Shot Dead in Sydney
- The Police have provided details surrounding the death of former UFC fighter and coach, Suman Mokhtarian
- The 33-year-old was reportedly gunned down while he was on an early evening walk on Wednesday
- The news about Mokhtarian's death sparked many reactions from social media users as tributes poured in online
Former UFC fighter Suman Mokhtarian was shot dead in a “brazen” attack while taking an early evening walk in Sydney, according to police, just months after surviving a previous attempt on his life.
Source: Getty Images
The combat sports superstar was gunned down in a “brazen” shooting while on an early evening walk in Sydney on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
Local reports indicate that Mokhtarian previously survived an assassination attempt in February 2025, when a gunman opened fire on him outside a gym in western Sydney.
According to ESPN, Mokhtarian competed in the UFC twice between 2018 and 2019, suffering defeats in both bouts before transitioning into coaching. It was also reported that he later played a key role in nurturing some of Australia’s top emerging mixed martial arts talents.
Police provide update on Mokhtarian's death
New South Wales Police have confirmed Mokhtarian was killed in a “targeted” shooting in Riverstone, a suburb in northwest Sydney, on Wednesday evening.
NSW Police Superintendent Jason Joyce expressed both shock and disappointment about the shooting that led to the former UFC star’s death.
However, he clarifies that police believe it wasn’t a random act of violence but a targeted attack, suggesting the victim was specifically chosen rather than an innocent bystander.
“It’s a bold and troubling incident, and it’s unfortunate to see something like this occur in our community,” said NSW Police Superintendent Jason Joyce.
“You would expect people to feel safe walking around their neighbourhood at that time of night, but our investigation indicates this was a targeted attack,” he added.
According to IOL News, a resident, identified only as Ben, said he was walking with his wife when they heard a gunshot. He explained that a loud bang was followed by a cloud of smoke rising into the air, which he believed came from the vehicle.
Ben described the scene as chaotic, with many bystanders in shock after witnessing the incident, though it doesn’t provide information on where the scene occurred. He added that the shooting occurred while children were riding their bicycles around the park.
Source: Getty Images
Mokhtarian's neighbour, named Natalie, said she was outside her home with her children when the shooting occurred. She immediately called the police after hearing the gunshot.
Natalie explained that she ran to check on Mokhtarian but quickly realised he was already dead.
The report about Mokhtarian's death comes days after UFC legend Conor McGregor was suspended for 18 months after violating the organisation’s anti-doping regulations.
Fans react as Mokhtarian passed on
Cameron Vice said:
"2 respected fighters gone ..something ain’t right .at such a young age bro my condolences to both families of suman & gatti. Rip"
TheBoss2719 wrote:
"They ambushed him at his gym a few months ago and missed. Now they’ve finished the job. The Australia underworld is as dangerous as it gets right now."
Ricardo de Lima shared:
"This guy is very well known here in my community in Sydney. He was a very good guy. May god rest his soul."
Azraelic_999 commented:
"He survived an assassination attempt before and he still walks freely. Courage doesn't stop bullets."
VicMRodriguez added:
"Oh! He had an event cancelled recently because of safety concerns, and he goes out for a walk? Just like that? That's wild, man."
Former Comrades Marathon winner passes away
Briefly News earlier reported that a former Comrade Marathon winner has passed away while being away with her family.
The SA Athletics administrator was reportedly spending quality time with her family in Lesotho when the unfortunate incident happened.
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Source: Briefly News
