The world of mixed martial arts suffered a devastating loss with the news of legendary mixed martial arts coach Shawn Tompkins’ death this past weekend.

Tompkins, 37, was a beloved husband and son, a successful entrepreneur, and a devoted mixed martial artist whose passion for MMA inspired countless athletes and fans. The Canadian native who made his home in Las Vegas was affectionately known as “The Coach” to his friends and fans around the globe. Tompkins passed in his sleep.

During a career that spanned more than two decades, Tompkins coached 15 champions in six different weight classes, including icons such as Vitor Belfort, Randy Couture, and Wanderlei Silva. He took particular interest in cultivating the sport’s future champions, including MMA’s rising stars Sam Stout, Mark Hominick, and Chris Horodecki.

The Tompkins family extends their deepest gratitude to friends and fans for their support, and asks that their privacy be respected during this very difficult time. Those wishing to express their sympathies to the Tompkins family may do so at a special Shawn Tompkins guestbook.

The Shawn Tompkins Memorial Fund has been established and those wishing to contribute may contact TeamTompkins@ShogunMMA.com.  A memorial service will be held in Las Vegas in the coming weeks; details will be announced at www.amrgroup.tv.

“Shawn was more than a client, he was personal friend whose love of MMA had enormous influence on our agency and the entire sport,” says Gary Ibarra, AMR Group’s founder and president. “His passion and vision for MMA was infectious, evident by how he could motivate his fighters to become better athletes and people. On behalf of AMR Group’s athletes and staff, we extend our deepest sympathies to Emilie, Sam and Shawn’s entire family. His spirit will live on in our hearts.”

Tompkins was in Canada to help prepare Horodecki for his next bout on Sept. 10 at the time of his passing.