Connor Hitchens, a former competitor in Cage Warriors, has passed away at the age of 26.
On Tuesday, the English promotion and the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) announced Hitchens’ death.
The Cage Warriors team expressed their deep sorrow in a heartfelt message, offering condolences to Hitchens’ family and friends. They posted on social media:
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Cage Warriors featherweight Connor Hitchens. The entire CW family extends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Similarly, IMMAF President Kerrith Brown shared a message of grief:
“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 with the IMMAF.”
The time and cause of Hitchens’ death have not been disclosed. MMA commentator Harry Williams was among the first to report the news.
Connor Hitchens made his debut for Cage Warriors in April 2022, following a successful start to his professional career, winning six of his first seven bouts. In his debut, he faced Manny Akpan and unfortunately lost by knockout in the second round. This fight marked the end of his professional career, as he had not competed since.
Before turning professional, Hitchens had a notable amateur career with nearly 20 fights from 2013 to 2017. He secured decision wins over current Bellator standout Ciaran Clarke and recent PFL and Cage Warriors fighter Dominique Wooding.
The MMA community has expressed their condolences and shared their memories of Hitchens. IMMAF President Kerrith Brown stated:
“On behalf of the entire International Mixed Martial Arts Federation, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Connor Hitchens.”
Prominent figures in the MMA world, including Marc Goddard and Paul Redmond, also paid tribute to Hitchens, remembering him as a talented athlete and a kind person.
Marc Goddard tweeted, “Absolutely horrendous news, RIP Connor. Rest easy young man.”
Paul Redmond shared, “Very sad, met & trained with him over in Liverpool, very nice lad great talent. Thoughts are with his family, RIP.”
The MMA community continues to mourn the loss of Connor Hitchens, honoring his legacy and contributions to the sport.
