LEGENDARY Jiu-jitsu fighter Leandro Lo has been shot and killed in a brawl after allegedly pinning down an attacker who then pulled a gun.
The 33-year-old was declared brain dead after being shot in the head at point-blank range at a concert in Sao Paulo, Lo’s lawyer said.
Lo was declared brain dead after being shot in the forehead[/caption]
The killing allegedly took place during a confrontation between Lo and police officer Henrique Otávio Oliveira Velozo, MMA Fighting reported.
Lo was rushed to Dr. Arthur Ribeiro de Saboya hospital but was declared brain dead hours later.
According to witnesses, Velozo grabbed a bottle from Lo’s table and the fighter took him down and held him to the ground, the publication said, citing a police report.
It claims the pair were separated, which is when Velozo allegedly withdrew a gun and fired a round into Lo’s forehead.
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The Brazilian champ has dominated the world of Jiu-jitsu since 2011 and has won eight World Championship titles, making him one of the most decorated fighters of the sport of all time.
Lo won another World Championship in California earlier this year.
Tributes have poured in for the sporting legend.
Former UFC fighter Kenny Florian tweeted: “A very sad day for the BJJ community. Leandro was a legend.”
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UFC commentator John Gooden wrote: “Saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Leandro Lo. One of the greatest Jiu-jitsu players ever.
“Absolutely tragic. My condolences to his family and friends.”
Sports commentator and former heavy weight champ Josh Thomson tweeted: “The word legend is thrown around way to much in sports but it can’t be thrown around enough when it comes to your name in Jiu Jitsu.
“Leandro Lo, my heart and prayers to your family my brother. Rest easy my friend.”
The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation confirmed the star’s death in a tweet.
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They wrote: “The IBJJF and Jiu Jitsu community are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Leandro Lo.
“Lo was one of the greatest athletes our sport has ever produced. An example of a true black belt, martial artist and champion on and off the mats. Rest in peace legend.”
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