One of the most important advocates of mixed martial arts in North America has passed away.
Jeff Blatnick, a UFC commentator from UFC 4 to UFC 32, died today following complications which arose from heart surgery. Blatnick was an Olympic Gold Medalist wrestler at the 1984 Olympics, and an NCAA Wrestling Division II Champion in 1978 and 1979.
Blatnick will be remembered as a strong advocate of mixed martial arts from his time of joining the UFC in 1994. After his commentating career came to an end, Blatnick became a judge and tirelessly helped to craft the set of rules which are still followed today.
On behalf of MMASucka, we’d like to extend our sincere condolences to the Blatnick family.