Former UFC featherweight Suman Mokhtarian was shot and killed Wednesday evening in Riverstone, New South Wales. He was 33. Paramedics attempted to revive him on scene but were unsuccessful. Police said the attack appears to have been targeted and a manhunt is underway.
Authorities responded shortly after 6 p.m. local time to reports of a shooting. Mokhtarian suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the upper torso. Around the same time, emergency services also received reports of two vehicles on fire in the area, including a red Audi that matches descriptions linked to the shooter. Detectives are investigating whether the incidents are connected and have appealed for witnesses and dash-cam footage.
This was not the first known attempt on Mokhtarian’s life. In February 2024, a gunman allegedly tried to kill him outside Australian Top Team, where children’s classes were in session. The suspect reportedly disguised as a delivery driver was arrested and later released on bail. In April, police cited potential gang-related danger in forcing the cancellation of the inaugural Dark Matter Fighting Championship event, where Mokhtarian planned to coach several athletes.
Who was Suman Mokhtarian?
Mokhtarian rose on the Australian regional scene before earning a spot on The Ultimate Fighter 27 (featherweight). Though he lost to Ricky Steele on the show, he subsequently signed with the UFC, debuting in December 2018 against Sodiq Yusuff and returning in December 2019 against Seung Woo Choi. Injuries and setbacks halted his competitive career, and he transitioned to full-time coaching at Australian Top Team alongside his brother, former UFC fighter Ashkan Mokhtarian.
Community reaction
News of the killing shook Australia’s MMA community. Fighters and students from Australian Top Team shared tributes on social media, remembering Mokhtarian as a demanding but dedicated coach who helped build prospects across Sydney’s west.
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Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
