Overview
- Reports state he died Monday at age 63, and no specific cause has been disclosed.
- He suffered a stroke in 2013 that left him with right-side paralysis and later received the Illinois Medal of Courage in 2023 for his recovery.
- A standout in Greco-Roman wrestling, he won three U.S. national titles, captained the 1986 U.S. team, and served as a 1988 Olympic alternate.
- He moved into MMA in the late 1990s, faced Evan Tanner at UFC 18 in 1999, and retired in 2001 with a 5–6 record after two wins at World Vale Tudo Championship 12.
- Obituary accounts also highlight coaching work in Brazil, including training Vitor Belfort and links to the Nogueira brothers.