Stephan Bonnar, a UFC Hall of Famer and one of the pioneers of mixed martial arts, passed away on December 22, 2022, at the age of 45. His death shocked and saddened the MMA community, who remembered him for his epic fight with Forrest Griffin in the first season of The Ultimate Fighter. But what was the cause of Bonnar’s death? How did a fighter who was known for his toughness and resilience fall victim to a fatal drug overdose?
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The Official Cause of Death
According to the Clark County coroner’s office in Nevada, Bonnar’s cause of death was an accidental drug overdose due to Fentanyl, Parafluorofentanyl, and Mitragynine intoxication. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Parafluorofentanyl is a similar substance that is even more powerful and deadly. Mitragynine is a psychoactive compound found in kratom, a plant that is used as a herbal remedy or a recreational drug.
These substances can have various effects on the body and mind, such as pain relief, euphoria, sedation, respiratory depression, and addiction. When taken together or in high doses, they can cause fatal overdoses by slowing down or stopping the breathing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 93,000 people died from drug overdoses in the United States in 2020, with synthetic opioids such as fentanyl being the main driver of the increase.
The Struggle with Injuries and Substance Abuse
Bonnar’s drug overdose was not an isolated incident. He had a history of struggling with injuries and substance abuse throughout his career and after his retirement. Bonnar suffered from chronic back pain and multiple fractures due to his intense fighting style and pro wrestling stunts. He underwent several surgeries and treatments to cope with his physical ailments.
However, he also resorted to using illegal substances to enhance his performance or alleviate his pain. In 2012, he tested positive for Drostanolone, an anabolic steroid, after losing to Anderson Silva at UFC 153. He was suspended for one year by the UFC and later announced his retirement from MMA. In 2018, he was arrested for driving under the influence after crashing his car on a highway in Nevada. He had traces of alcohol and opioids in his system at the time.
Bonnar admitted that he had a problem with substance abuse and sought help from various sources. He tried to quit using drugs and alcohol several times, but he relapsed repeatedly. He also faced financial and personal difficulties that added to his stress and depression. He lost his job as a medical equipment salesman and separated from his wife and son. He became isolated and withdrawn from his friends and family.
The Legacy of a MMA Legend
Despite his tragic demise, Bonnar’s legacy as a MMA legend remains intact. He was one of the pioneers of the sport who helped popularize it among mainstream audiences. He was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2013 along with Forrest Griffin, his rival and friend. Their fight in 2005 is widely regarded as one of the greatest fights in MMA history, as they put on a thrilling display of heart and skill that captivated millions of viewers.
Bonnar had a record of 15-9 in MMA, with 10 wins by knockout or submission. He fought some of the best fighters in the world, such as Anderson Silva, Jon Jones, Rashad Evans, Mark Coleman, and Tito Ortiz. He was known for his durability, aggressiveness, and charisma. He never gave up or backed down from a challenge. He entertained and inspired fans with his passion and courage.
Bonnar’s death is a reminder of the dangers of drug abuse and the need for more awareness and support for those who suffer from it. He was not only a fighter but also a human being who had flaws and struggles like anyone else. He deserves respect and compassion for his achievements and contributions to MMA. He will be missed by many who loved him and admired him.
Rest in peace, Stephan Bonnar.
