Suman Mokhtarian, a former UFC competitor who transitioned into a respected MMA coach, was tragically fatally shot in what authorities suspect was a deliberate attack in western Sydney.
The 33-year-old was fatally wounded while taking an evening walk in Riverstone around 6 pm on Wednesday, October 8. Emergency responders arrived at Annaluke Street to find Mokhtarian suffering from gunshot injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mokhtarian competed twice in the UFC during 2018 and 2019 before dedicating himself to coaching. Alongside his brother Ashkan Mokhtarian at Australian Top Team, he was instrumental in nurturing some of Australia’s most promising MMA talents.
Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched a thorough investigation into the shooting.
According to a statement from NSW Police, “A man has died following a shooting in a public area in Sydney’s west today. At approximately 6 pm, emergency services responded to reports of a shooting on Annaluke Street, Riverstone.”
“Officers from the Riverstone Police Area Command arrived and found a male victim with gunshot wounds. Paramedics provided treatment, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries at the location. The victim’s identity has not yet been officially confirmed.”
“A crime scene was established, and investigations into the incident are ongoing. Shortly after, around 6:15 pm, emergency services were alerted to a vehicle fire on Riverstone Road near Clark Street.”
“Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the blaze, but the car was completely destroyed. Police have set up a second crime scene and are examining whether the two events are connected.”
Jesse Swain, one of Mokhtarian’s students, shared an emotional message on Instagram: “I haven’t been able to sleep since hearing the news. Suman believed in me more than I ever did in myself. Everything I’ve achieved in MMA is because of him. Anyone who knew him understood his passion and drive-he always demanded excellence.”
“He pushed me beyond limits I never imagined reaching when I first started. He stopped me from quitting late last year and opened doors to professional opportunities. He personally told me about my potential in this sport, and I’m determined to honor that promise.”
Earlier this year, in February 2024, Mokhtarian survived a suspected assassination attempt outside the Australian Top Team gym located in Wentworthville, a Sydney suburb.
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