British MMA star Jahreau Shepherd dead at 30

Tributes have started pouring in for Jahreau Shepherd after the British MMA star tragically died at just 30-years-old.

Jahreau Shepherd has tragically passed away.

British MMA fighter Jahreau Shepherd has tragically passed away aged 30.

Shepherd is thought to have died suddenly on Saturday, but a cause of death is yet to be confirmed, The Sun reports.

The fighter was welterweight champion with MMA promoters Contenders, who confirmed the sad news on Instagram.

A statement posted to the social media site said: “Everyone at Contenders is absolutely devastated to hear of Jahreau Shepherd’s death.

“Jay, our welterweight champion, was hugely talented and great fun to be around, a big personality with a huge smile and infectious laugh.

“Inside the cage, he was destined for the top — a champion in three different organisations with heavy hands and a warrior heart.

“Our thoughts are with all his family and friends at this terrible time.

“Rest in peace, champ.”

Known as “The Nightmare”, Shepherd had a 6-2 record from eight professional fights.

MMA commentator Michael Morgan was one of many leaving tributes for the fighter. He tweeted: “Absolutely shocked to hear the news this morning.

“A true gentleman inside and outside the cage.

“Rest in peace UK MMA’s Jahreau Shepherd.”

Shepherd fought under the Cage Warriors and Bellator organisations as well as UCMMA and Fusion FC.

He defeated Quinten de Vreught via unanimous decision in England back in February to be crowned welterweight champ at Contenders 29.

In incredibly sad news, it appears that Jahreau “The Nightmare” Shepherd passed away last night evening. He was 30 and 6-2 as a pro with fights in BAMMA, @MTK_MMA and @Bellator_Europe. There are currently no details on what happened. My condolences and thoughts to Jay’s family 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/vX8yRZAReT

— Jim Edwards (@MMA_Jim) July 12, 2020

This article first appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission