A 27-year-old mining contractor with UFC aspirations died after being attacked by a bear in Canada, his brother and officials confirmed.
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Hrishikesh Koloth, who worked for UraniumX Discovery Corp, was fatally attacked by a black bear on May 8 at the exploration company's site in Saskatchewan, CBS News, The New York Times and CTV News reported.
The region is known for frequent sightings of black and grizzly bears.
Koloth had been living in Penticton, British Columbia, with his brother, Arjun Koloth. He was training in mixed martial arts, preparing to coach boxing, and still hoping to eventually sign with the UFC.
"We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss," UraniumX CEO Esen Boldkhuu said in a statement following the attack. "Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased."
Arjun told CBC his brother was fearless and willing to fight any opponent.
"He's not scared of anything," Arjun said. "Two days' notice before a fight? Doesn't matter. Opponent heavier than him? Doesn't matter. Win or lose, he just wanted to fight."
Saskatchewan Officials Issue Bear Warning to Residents
CBS News reported that the black bear involved in the attack was euthanized by a civilian at the scene before officers arrived.
As a precaution, all field operations at the company's Zoo Bay property have been paused since the incident. An investigation is underway.
On the day of the bear attack, the government of Saskatchewan issued a reminder to residents to be cognizant of hungry bears seeking food near homes and campsites.
"Black bears are intelligent and ruled by their stomachs. Limiting attractants is the most effective way to reduce these interactions," the authorities warned.
"Everybody had high hopes for him," Arjun said of his brother. "It shouldn't have been like this."
Hrishikesh's funeral will be held in his native Kerala, India.
