Former UFC fighter Suman Mokhtarian has been shot dead while walking on a suburban street in Sydney’s west, after surviving previous failed attempts on his life.
The professional fighter turned coach was killed near the corner of Annaluke St and Riverbrae Ave at Riverstone about 6pm on Wednesday night.
Emergency services were called to the scene just after 6pm following reports of a shooting.
Officers from Riverstone Police Area Command found a man with gunshot wounds. He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics, but died at the scene.
Police established a crime scene and launched inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police Superintendent Jason Joyce told reporters late on Wednesday night that it is too early to tell if the attack was linked to organised crime.
“It was very brazen and it’s a shame that this has happened in our community,” he said.
“But we do believe it’s a targeted attack.
“My heart goes out to the family of this victim.”
“Police established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident,” a police statement read.
Around 6.15pm, emergency services were called to Riverstone Road, Riverstone near Clark Street following reports of a car fire.
Fire and Rescue NSW crews attended and extinguished the blaze, however the vehicle was destroyed.
Police have established a second crime scene and are investigating whether the two incidents are linked.
Mokhtarian survived a previous attempt on his life when a shooter, who was disguised as a food delivery driver, repeatedly shot at him outside his gym in February last year.
While in April, New South Wales police cancelled a ‘Dark Matter Fighting Championship event’ where he was meant to coach several fighters competing due police believing he was set to be the target of a potential hit at that event.
Who is Suman Mokhtarian?
Mokhtarian was a prominent figure in the Australian MMA space.
He was the founder of the Australian Top Team, former UFC athlete, and “Ultimate Fighter” veteran.
Mokhtarian (8-2) went a perfect 8-0 to start his career prior to linking up with the UFC, where he lost both of his two fights with the premier MMA organisation.
He had not fought since.
Tributes flow for MMA veteran
Fellow fighters have paid tribute to Mokhtarian on Thursday morning as news of his death spread.
Tyler Diamond, who appeared on the same season of ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ wrote on social media: “He had a genuinely good heart. This is sad to see.”
While one of Mokhtarian’s students, Jesse Swain penned a heartfelt tribute on Wednesday night.
“Haven’t been able to sleep tonight after hearing the news so decided to post this now, firstly I want to say Suman believed in me more than I believed in myself O owe all I’ve done in mma to him,” it began.
“Anyone that knew him personally knows how passionate and invigorating he was and he expected nothing but the best from you.
“He pushed me to heights I never thought I’d get to when starting out, he stopped me from quitting in late 2024 right before he got me the professional opportunities and he personally told me my potential in the game I’ll make sure to fulfill that potential for him.”