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“Very Sad and Tragic”: UFC Officials Join Herb Dean in Mourning the Loss of MMA and Self-Defense Expert

Published 05/29/2023, 12:30 PM EDT

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Ryan Spink, a highly respected self-defense expert with over thirty years of martial arts experience, tragically passed away in a car accident in Los Angeles, California. The news of his untimely demise prompted UFC referee Herb Dean to pay tribute to his dearest friend. Some of the UFC officials mourned with Dean. Renowned for his accomplishments in martial arts, Ryan Spink held an impressive six black belts across multiple disciplines. He also served as the esteemed head instructor at the Cobra Kai Gym, located in Victorville, California.

Recently, Ryan Spink and his wife, Stacey, were returning home after his shift at a USFL tournament. It was then their vehicle began experiencing mechanical issues. As a precautionary measure, they pulled over to inspect the problem. The couple awaited assistance at the scene. Unfortunately, a drunk driver collided with their car, causing severe injuries to the couple. Despite valiantly fighting his wounds, Ryan Spink tragically succumbed to his injuries.

Herb Dean and other UFC officials mourn the death of Ryan Spink

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The death of Spink is an unbearable loss to the MMA community. He has trained many mixed martial artists and helped them achieve their goals. Dean considered Spink a dear friend who played a significant role in his life. After the passing of Spink, Dean says his life was left with a void. He posted a picture of Spink on Instagram, the UFC referee wrote, “I am trying to wrap my mind around the fact I will not be seeing my friend Ryan @sifuryanspink anymore. He was a big part of so many peoples life mine included. My heart goes out to his family. All of us have a large hole in our lives now because he really wanted made the world a better place. #mma

 

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After coming across the post, one of the most famous UFC referees, Mike Beltran wrote, “Very sad and tragic.” Other than Beltran the highly respected UFC referee Marc Goddard liked the post. 

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Dominick Reyes pays tribute to his instructor

Following his defeat at UFC 281, Dominick Reyes has been dedicating himself to intense training and preparation for his upcoming fights. However, in the wake of the unexpected passing of Ryan Spink, he expressed genuine and heartfelt appreciation for the well-known martial arts personality.

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Reyes, recognizing the impact of Spink’s expertise, took a moment to share sincere words of gratitude for the esteemed figure. The loss of Spink deeply affected Reyes, prompting him to express his appreciation for the influence that Spink had in the world of martial arts. He wrote: “We lost a legend today! See you on the other side my Brother! I will take the knowledge you have bestowed upon to the belt! Stay in shape! We are gonna work when I get up there.” Under the post, the very famous UFC commentator Jon Anik posted some praying emojis.

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Written by:

Priyanka

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Priyanka is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. Her passion for the UFC is evident in her writing, and she has been a devoted fan of the sport for many years. Priyanka is particularly fascinated by the sportsmanship displayed by fighters, and she is captivated by their ability to calculate each move when an opponent is all set to attack.
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Edited by:

Anuj Jacob