The MMA World Is In Mourning Following The Passing Of Former UFC Middleweight Elias Theodorou

The mixed martial arts community, particularly in Canada, suffered a tragic loss over the weekend. Former UFC middleweight Elias Theodorou, known affectionately as “The Spartan,” passed away at the age of 34 after a battle with cancer.

Theodorou made the UFC in 2014 by virtue of winning The Ultimate Fighter: Nations tournament. He then put together a five-year UFC career with an 8-3 record in the company. He was 22-3 overall with notable wins Eryk Anders and Sam Alvey.

But Theodorou was also popular out of the cage. He was active on Twitter and a fierce advocate for the use of medical marijuana in combat sports. In 2020, he became the first fighter to receive a therapeutic use exemption for medical marijuana.

The charismatic Canadian was also a contender on season three of The Amazing Race: Canada.

The MMA World Mourns Elias Theodorou’s Passing

Theodorou cut a popular figure in the MMA world and in UFC locker rooms. His engaging, comedic personality made him a friend to many in the company.

Those friends are now mourning and shared tributes across social media on Monday. UFC president Dana White shared a graphic on his Instagram story honoring Theodorou.

While UFC bantamweight champion Alijamain Sterling shared his sentiments.

Fight promotion Invicta also remembered Theodorou, who once served as a “Ring Boy” for the company.

UFC Welterweight Michael Chiesa recalled a moment when Theodorou literally gave him the shirt off his back.

Plenty of others weighed in as well.

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