English featherweight Connor Hitchens, best known for his participation in the popular fighting promotion Cage Warriors, passed away this week at the age of 26. No cause of death has been released.
Hitchens’ passing was confirmed today with a post on his official social media page.
Throughout his career, Hitchens competed more than twenty times, fighting his way through the ranks of IMMAF, the global body for MMA, as well as other organizations.
Connor started his professional career on a high note, amassing a 6-0 record. However, he subsequently lost his next two fights in a row. Hitchens had not competed since his Cage Warriors debut, during which he suffered a TKO loss from a spinning wheel-kick delivered by his opponent, Manny Akpan.
Connor was also scheduled to fight Antonio Sheldon in November 2022. However, Hitchens eventually withdrew from the fight before it ever came to fruition.
Cage Warriors and the IMMAF both released statements following the passing of their former fighter.
A message from IMMAF president Kerrith Brown on the tragic passing of Connor Hitchens:
— IMMAF (@IMMAFed) May 21, 2024
''On behalf of the entire International Mixed Martial Arts Federation we are deeply saddened by the passing of Connor Hitchens.
We are forever grateful to Connor for his time on the IMMAF… pic.twitter.com/cG6lwpKOel
We are saddened to learn of the passing of Cage Warriors featherweight Connor Hitchens.
— Cage Warriors (@CageWarriors) May 21, 2024
The entire CW family extends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
RIP 🙏 pic.twitter.com/ilwcAwQJsK
Fans and members of the MMA community have taken to social media to mourn the loss of the young fighter.
A Talented young Father taken his own life, sad to see. RIP Connor Hitchens Prayers for his Daughter, Family and friends🙏🏻❤️ pic.twitter.com/lGnLhYtmCg
— Callum (@Callum97707127) May 21, 2024
Just hearing the very sad news of the sudden passing of Connor Hitchens.
— Harry Williams (@Harry_Williams) May 20, 2024
Hitchens was one of the best amateur fighters we’ve ever had in the UK. He went on to win pro titles domestically before reaching Cage Warriors.
Awful news. A great fighter, father & human. pic.twitter.com/H5NGaDIWNE
Rest in peace!
