Just incredibly sad news in the world of MMA as One-time BKFC fighter Justin Thornton has died following a brutal knockout loss suffered at his lone fight for the promotion back in August.
He was only 38-years-old.
BKFC issued a statement to MMA Fighting following news that Thornton has passed away several weeks after his fight at BKFC 20 in Mississippi.
“This morning we were very saddened to be notified of the passing of one of our fighters, Justin Thornton, who competed at BKFC 20 on August 20, 2021,” BKFC president Dave Feldman said.
“We join the rest of the combat sports community in sending our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
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Thornton was hospitalized after he suffered a knockout in his fight against Dillon Cleckler at BKFC 20. It was a quick fight that lasted just 19 seconds with Thornton falling face first to the canvas after he was knocked out during a rapid-fire exchange in the middle of the ring.
Thornton was partially paralyzed after the fight and he remained hospitalized for several weeks as he fought off an infection from a spinal cord injury.
Thornton competed in 24 fights during his MMA career and compiled a 8-16 overall record. His opponent during his last fight was 11-1 while Thornton hadn’t won a fight since 2016.
