UFC star Mark Hunt’s heartbreak after uncle is killed in Christchurch massacre
UFC superstar Mark Hunt has revealed his uncle was one of those murdered in last week’s New Zealand massacre.
Fifty people died in the shootings at two Christchurch mosques after a lone attacker opened fire during Friday prayers.
And now South Auckland-born Hunt, 44, has admitted his heartache after the killer took the life of his family member.
In a Facebook post, the fighter said: “The support here in New Zealand has been so great, we’re lost for words.
“I live in Auckland but went down to Christchurch after hearing about the shooting. Sadly I lost my uncle in the shooting.”
Hunt then appeared to imply that he had made eye contact with the cold-blooded killer moments before the attack was carried out.
Stood on a pavement opposite one of the mosques attacked, he added: “We were standing on the side of the road in Christchurch, and this brother drives past and shows a heart symbol with his hands… then 5 minutes later he comes back and did this…”
The main suspect, Australian Brenton Tarrant, has since appeared in court on a single murder charge.
The gunman live-streamed the attack for 17-minutes before posting it on Facebook, along with a 74-page manifesto of hate.
Hunt last stepped in to the Octagon in December where he lost via a decision to Justin Willis at UFC Fight Night 142 in Adelaide, Australia.
After being at odds with Dana White’s company for several years, the hardman asked for his release after the setback.
He has since revealed plans to fight for other promotions but his future remains unclear at present.