Sad news for MMA fans, as Bellator MMA and World Series of Fighting veteran Isaiah Chapman has died.
Chapman, 30, was reportedly killed Tuesday, shot in front of his Akron, Ohio home. Police responding to a call of shots fired found the victim on the ground, and had him transported to hospital. He was later pronounced dead. Reporter David McKinney initially reported the news on Twitter. Chapman’s death was later confirmed by Bellator matchmaker Rich Chou. A Go Fund Me account has been set up to cover funeral costs.
No suspects have been identified in the case as of yet.
RIP Isaiah Chapman 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/3oIiqldqVU
— Rich Chou (@rich_chou) April 8, 2020
A statement from the Go Fund Me for Chapman reads:
On April 7th, 2020 Isaiah “The Beast” Chapman was tragically taken from the world, leaving behind two daughters Faith & Aubrey, & son Isaac. Last night they lost not only their father but best friend and real life super hero. Isaiah was the best father for his children and was there for them every step of their lives. He was truly an example and role model to all. Isaiah had recently lived out his MMA dream by appearing in Bellator MMA. Proving that you should never give up on your dreams! He was always such a cheerful and loving person that will be remembered forever by everyone who he ever came in contact with. Our lives will never be the same without him, and we will all certainly miss his hugs. If you have it in your heart, we would appreciate any help for the funeral expenses and the rest will go to his family for other expenses. Please keep us all in prayers, especially his children that God may give us comfort for this unexpected loss.
A bantamweight, Chapman last competed at Bellator 232 in October, losing to Patrick Mix by way of Suloev Stretch. The loss snapped a three-fight win streak for “The Beast,” who compiled a 9-4 record across his pro career.
