The MMA world is mourning the loss of Orlando Wiet at the age of 60. For the newer UFC fans, he might sound unknown. But Wiet was among the pioneers: the first UFC fighters when the promotion was launched in the 90s. Still, the loss has deeply saddened many others in the community as they pour in their prayers.
According to a report from Dutch news outlet Vechtsportinfo, Orlando Wiet has passed away. It was top MMA coach Milton Felter who confirmed the news. While the explicit reason for the demise is yet to be revealed, a few reports have noted it to be due to a long illness. Only time will reveal how the legendary MMA practitioner passed away.
Sad news for the fight world. Kickboxing pioneer Orlando Wiet has passed away, confirmed by coach Milton Felter.
A true trailblazer who fought in Lumpini Stadium, competed at UFC 2, and faced elite names across kickboxing, boxing, and MMA. His legacy lives on.#RIPOrlandoWiet… pic.twitter.com/kRQ2g0lAAU
— Vechtsport Info
(@vechtsport_Info) March 26, 2026
Now, to give a brief overview of his career, Wiet competed in UFC 2: No Way Out, held in Denver, Colorado. It was a tournament set up for the leading MMA promotion then. On the same night, the Surinamese-Dutchman fought twice. While he beat Robert Locarelli, Wiet fell short against Remco Pardoel in the subsequent round.
His records weren’t as electric as those of fighters in today’s world, like Ilia Topuria. But Wiet was more of a pioneer to motivate a generation of Mixed Martial Artists. Although he was born in Suriname and had Dutch nationality, Wiet was the first UFC fighter to represent France.
Amid his MMA career, Wiet also competed in Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Boxing. From Asia to Europe, the Surinamese-born fought almost everyone around the world. And the demise of Wiet just adds up to the loss of another legend of the sport.
