Bellator’s Chapman Dead Following Shooting

By FIGHTSPORTS Apr 9, 2020

MMA fighter Isaiah Chapman was reportedly taken away from the world this week.

The Beacon Journal stated that shots were fired at around 9:40 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, with Chapman the one wounded in the aftermath. Chapman was transported to Summa Akron City Hospital in Ohio before being announced dead on the scene. Bellator matchmaker Rich Chou ended up posting on Twitter a tribute to Chapman.

RIP Isaiah Chapman 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/3oIiqldqVU

— Rich Chou (@rich_chou) April 8, 2020

Starting his career in 2012, Chapman, (9-4) fought for North American Allied Fight Series, World Series of Fighting and Honor FC. He made his Bellator debut in October at Bellator 232, losing to Patrick Mix via kneebar submission. Chapman, known as “The Beast”. replaced Dominic Mazzotta, who had to back out due to injury.

A GoFundMe has been created in Chapman’s honor. The statement on the page reads the following:

“On April 7th, 2020 Isaiah “The Beast” Chapman was tragically taken from the world, leaving behind two daughters Faith & Aubrey, & son Isaac. Last night they lost not only their father but best friend and real life super hero. Isaiah was the best father for his children and was there for them every step of their lives. He was truly an example and role model to all. Isaiah had recently lived out his MMA dream by appearing in Bellator MMA. Proving that you should never give up on your dreams! He was always such a cheerful and loving person that will be remembered forever by everyone who he ever came in contact with. Our lives will never be the same without him, and we will all certainly miss his hugs. If you have it in your heart, we would appreciate any help for the funeral expenses and the rest will go to his family for other expenses. Please keep us all in prayers, especially his children that God may give us comfort for this unexpected loss. Funeral date, time, and location will be posted in an update.”

The 30-year-old is a father of three. The shooter remains at large as of this writing.