MMA Fighter Dies After Debut

COLUMBIA, SC – Michael Kirkham, nicknamed the ‘Tree’ because he stood 6′ 9″ tall, died as a result of brain injuries sustained during his debut MMA bout.

Kirkham was 30 years old, and is the second MMA fighter to die from injuries in the US. Mixed Martial Arts style competition was banned in South Carolina – where the event took place – until last summer.

Kirkham was struck several times in the head during the match, and later collapsed. He was transported to the Aiken Regional Medical, but never regained consciousness.

An autopsy is to be performed tomorrow.