The former flyweight competitor passed away on Wednesday, September 25, five days after suffering a ruptured brain aneurysm that led to seizures and a stroke.
- Sep 27, 2019
AceShowbiz - Former MMA fighter Katy Collins has passed away at 32 years old. The veteran flyweight competitor died on Wednesday, September 25 after suffering a brain aneurysm, her trainer J.T. Tilley confirmed the sad news on Facebook.
He posted pictures of Katy on the ring and wrote a touching message. "The fight is over. You never stopped fighting and we never gave up on you. Just wasn't in the cards," it read. "...I've always been so proud of you Kate. We did it. I was honored to be able to live your dream with you. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I will miss you more than the world will ever know."
Posting another tribute to the late fighter, T.J. wrote, "We will see you on the other side Katy Collins. Thanks for sharing your spirit with all of us at Branson Fight Club. We will always remember our time with the RED DRAGON."
Katy suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm that caused a stroke and seizures on September 20, according to an update on Katy's condition shared on Saturday, September 21. "They done a procedure yesterday morning and the first one didn't work, it ruptured again! They rushed her for a second one and it took at this time! Now she is fighting with some swelling of the brain and fluids. They are keeping it drained and keeping her sedated so her brain can rest and she won’t be woke up until at least Monday!" read the update.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to pay for medical and funeral expenses. According to Katy's best friend Sarah Jones who started the GoFundMe page, she had a "crucial" moment on Monday, September 23. "Doctors and nurses are keeping the swelling and pressure down the best they can, but peak swelling is expected within the 72 hour window following her surgery to stop the bleeds," she wrote.
The page describes Katy as "young and strong and full of life and love." She leaves behind her two young sons. She was in a relationship with a man named Keith Harris at the time of death.
Following news of her passing, tribute has poured in from the MMA community. MMA analyst Dan Tom posted on Twitter, "I never knew Katy personally but the news of her passing saddens me extra as my mother readies for a similar fight. Aneurysms are serious/near-indiscriminate, so never take your health or loved ones for granted."
MMA pro Liv Parker tweeted, "I never had a chance to meet Katy Collins, but I knew who she was. So sad to hear of her passing. Prayers for her family and loved ones, as they sort through the hard days ahead. Always breaks my heart when the #MMA/#WMMA family loses one of their own."
Katy fought on the amateur circuit since 2011 before becoming a professional fighter. During her professional career from 2015 to 2018, she had a record of seven wins and five defeats.
