It has been reported that Brazilian jiu-jitsu icon, Leandro Lo, was fatally shot at a party following an altercation with a military police officer.
The 33-year-old athlete was tragically killed during the early hours of Sunday, August 7, at a club in Sao Paulo.
According to a police report obtained by Combate, Officer Henrique Otávio Oliveira Velozo is a suspect in the ongoing murder investigation.
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Witnesses claimed that Velozo confiscated a bottle from Lo’s table, leading to a physical confrontation between the MMA star and the officer.
Following their separation, Velozo allegedly drew a firearm and fatally shot Lo in the head.
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Despite being rushed to Dr. Arthur Ribeiro de Saboya hospital, Lo was declared brain dead.
The news of Lo’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes for the fighter, who clinched his eighth world championship earlier this year, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s most decorated athletes.
Former UFC fighter Kenny Florian expressed his sorrow on Twitter, stating: “A very sad day for the BJJ community. Leandro was a legend.”
Commentator John Gooden mourned the loss, writing: “Saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Leandro Lo. One of the greatest Jiu-jitsu players ever. Absolutely tragic. My condolences to his family and friends.”
Former heavyweight champion-turned-broadcaster Josh Thomson also paid his respects, saying: “The word legend is thrown around way too much in sports but it can’t be thrown around enough when it comes to your name in Jiu Jitsu. Leandro Lo, my heart and prayers to your family my brother. Rest easy my friend.”
