Legendary Jiu-jitsu fighter Leandro Lo was fatally shot at a concert in Sao Paulo, Brazil, according to reports.
A lawyer for the Brazilian Jiu-jitsu world champion confirmed that his client, 33, died after being declared brain-dead from the shooting, according to a report by MMA Fighting.
The killing allegedly took place during a confrontation between Lo and Police Officer Henrique Otávio Oliveira Velozo, the outlet reported.
Witnesses said Velozo grabbed a bottle from Lo’s table and that the fighter took the cop down and held him, according to the outlet, citing a police report.
MMA Fighting reports after the pair were separated, Velozo allegedly pulled out a gun, firing a round into Lo’s forehead.
Lo had dominated the sport since 2011, winning eight World Championship titles – which made him one of the most decorated Jiu-jitsu fighters of all time. Just earlier this year, he won another World Championship in California.
Tributes came flooding in after the shock news of his death.
“A very sad day for the BJJ community,” analyst and former UFC fighter Kenny Florian tweeted. “Leander was a legend.”
Combat sports analyst Luke Thomas tweeted: “Oh my god.”
UFC commentator John Gooden tweeted: “Saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Leandro Lo. One of the greatest Jiu-jitsu players ever. Absolutely tragic. My condolences to his family and friends of him.”
This article first appeared on the New York Post and was reproduced with permission
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