The death of Chuck Norris has left many members of the martial arts community in shock. That includes several fighters on the UFC roster, and other high-profile MMA figures.
Norris, a decorated karate practitioner with roles in a long list of beloved Hollywood action films, passed away in Hawaii on Friday. He was 86.
It did not take long for the world to react to this tragic news. Some of the earliest reactions came from UFC fighters Bo Nickal, Matt Brown, and Jared Gordon.
UFC fighters mourn the loss of Chuck Norris
RIP to the grim reaper for having to meet Chuck Norris
— Bo Nickal (@NoBickal) March 20, 2026
“RIP to the grim reaper for having to meet Chuck Norris,” wrote UFC middleweight contender Bo Nickal, offering his own spin on a classic Chuck Norris joke.
Chuck Norris dead at 86, damn
— Jared Gordon (@JFlashGordonMMA) March 20, 2026
“Chuck Norris dead at 86, damn,” wrote UFC lightweight Jared Gordon.
Word is Chuck was disappointed with the martial arts instructors in heaven so he decided it’s time to go there and show them what’s up! RIP to the legend though all love and respect
— Matt Brown (@IamTheImmortal) March 20, 2026
“Word is Chuck was disappointed with the martial arts instructors in heaven so he decided it’s time to go there and show them what’s up,” said Brown, a retired UFC welterweight. “RIP to the legend though all love and respect.”
One of the most notable MMA figures to react to Norris’ death is Gina Carano, who is of course set to return to action against former UFC champ Ronda Rousey in just over a month.
Rest in peace to a great man, there will never be anyone like him.
Chuck Norris. 💔— Gina Carano 🕯 (@ginacarano) March 20, 2026
Carano, who is an actor herself, called him “a great man.”
“Rest in peace to a great man, there will never be anyone like him,” she wrote.
Other members of the combat sports world to react to the news include pro wrestling organization WWE.
WWE is saddened to learn that legendary Hollywood actor and pop culture icon Chuck Norris has passed away.
WWE extends its condolences to Norris’ family, friends, and fans. pic.twitter.com/dZdR6xBoq1
— WWE (@WWE) March 20, 2026
Norris’ passing was announced by his family early on Friday morning. You can read their message to his millions of fans here.
The team at BJPenn.com sends their condolences to the Norris family during this difficult time.