Ultimate Fighting Championship fighter Allan Nascimento died Monday in his sleep due to an apparent heart attack, the organization announced. Nascimento, a Brazilian flyweight, was 34 years old and is survived by his wife and two children.
"This morning, Monday, August 3rd, our beloved flyweight fighter, Allan Nascimento, was found unresponsive after suffering an apparent heart attack in his sleep," the UFC stated on social media. Responding medical teams pronounced him deceased at the scene.
Nascimento last competed six weeks prior to his death, losing a split decision to Mitch Raposo in Las Vegas. Following the fight, Nascimento shared on Instagram, "Unfortunately, victory didn’t come this time, a defeat by split decision of the referees, but I leave with my head held high, knowing that I gave my best out there. Defeats also teach, strengthen, and are part of the journey."
Born in São Paulo, Nascimento began his professional mixed martial arts career in 2011. He signed with the UFC in 2021 and compiled a UFC record of 22-7, with 16 wins by submission. He had begun training in Muay Thai in 2007.
Charles Oliveira, a former UFC lightweight champion and teammate of Nascimento at the Chute Boxe Diego Lima gym in São Paulo, shared a tribute on Instagram. "Today, our team loses much more than an athlete; we lose a warrior, a friend, a dedicated competitor, and an extraordinary human being who earned the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of knowing him," Oliveira wrote.
Nascimento inspired others with his "determination, humility, respect, and fighting spirit," Oliveira added. "His presence will leave an immeasurable void."
Condolences have been shared by fellow fighters, fans, and MMA personalities, including UFC international correspondent Evelyn Rodrigues, who described Nascimento as "one of the kindest souls I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing through MMA."