UFC fighter found in coma, alongside dead friend
American MMA fighter Josh Samman, who fought in five UFC bouts from 2013 to July 2016, is reported to be in a coma in a local hospital in South Florida.
Samman was found unresponsive in his house on Friday alongside his friend Troy Kirkingburg, who was an MMA announcer for local Florida promotions. Kirkingburg was reported to have been pronounced dead on arrival.
Horrible news. Let's send some positive thoughts towards @JoshSamman. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Josh. Pulling for you. https://t.co/I1xJ0SZF6i
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) October 1, 2016
Although there have not been any official statements from the local police regarding possible reasons for the accident, many internet outlets believe that drug overdose was the most likely cause.
In April, Samman released an autobiography titled “The Housekeeper: Love, Death & Prizefighting,” in which he described his struggles with substance abuse and the loss of his girlfriend Hailey Bevis, who died in a car accident.
Samman, 28, started competing professionally in MMA in 2007, and had a record of 12 wins and 4 losses.
His UFC run included five fights (three wins and two losses), with an impressive knockout victory over Eddie Gordon in 2014.
In December, Samman was expected to fight Oluwale Bamgbose at UFC Fight Night 102 in Albany, NY.
