UPDATED Media reports: Two-time NCAA champion Kevin Randleman of Ohio State died Thursday at 44
by Various sources
Media reports and other sources have indicated that Kevin Randleman, a 1993 and 1994 NCAA Div. I champion for Ohio State at 177 pounds, passed away Thursday at age 44.
Randleman was a three-time All-American for the Buckeyes, and won three Big Ten titles. He was a state champion for Sandusky High School.
After his wrestling career, Randleman had a successful career in Mixed Martial Arts. He was a UFC heavyweight champion, and also competed in the Pride promotion.
USA Wrestling National Greco-Roman coach Matt Lindland knew Randleman going back to his college career, when Randleman beat his teammate Corey Olson on Nebraska in two NCAA finals. Lindland also got to know him through their careers in Mixed Martial Arts.
"I am so sad about this news. He was a really good man and a good friend. He was getting back into coaching wrestling. He was just out in Colorado for our coaches college, and was so excited to get into coaching youth wrestlers," said Lindland.
Two-time NCAA champion J Jaggers of Ohio State tweeted this: "RIP Kevin Randleman....Buckeye legend and friend"
According to SportingNews.com, Randleman reportedly passed away of complications from pneumonia.
A statement, attributed to his family, appeared on a Facebook page last evening. It read:
"With saddened hearts, the Randleman family confirms the passing of Kevin “The Monster” Randleman. Behind the name, was a gentle soul & loyal friend whom will be missed by many who loved him beyond the cage. The Ohio State University, UFC, MMA, & Sandusky, Ohio communities share in the loss of Kevin’s passing. While traveling on business, Kevin became ill & un-exectedly passed due to complications from pneumonia. Kevin leaves behind a wife & four extraordinary children to share his legacy with the world who mourns his passing. Life without “The Monster” will never be the same."
Click here for Sherdog's MMA career statistics for Kevin Randleman
We will be updating this as more information becomes available.x
SANDUSKY REGISTER: Sandusky grad Kevin Randleman - former OSU wrestler and UFC star - dead at 44
LANDGRANTHOLYLAND.COM: Ohio State Wrestling: Kevin Randleman dead at 44
FOXSPORTS: Kevin Randleman passes away at 44
SHERDOG : Former UFC champ, Pride Veteran Kevin Randleman dies at 44
MMAJUNKIE: Former UFC heavyweight champion Kevin Randleman reportedly dead at 44
KEVIN RANDLEMAN WEBSITE
SPORTING NEWS: MMA pioneer Kevin Randleman dies of complications from pneumonia
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