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Marvin Vettori Shares Heartbreaking Tribute Following Family Tragedy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Apr 15, 2025 9:19 AM ET

In the world of combat sports, fighters often credit their toughness and resolve to the unwavering support of family. Whether it’s the motivation before a title bout or the comfort after a crushing loss, family plays a vital role in shaping an athlete’s journey. But sometimes, even the strongest fighters are dealt the heaviest blows outside the octagon.

This week, the MMA community was shaken after learning that a top UFC contender tragically lost his younger brother, Patrick, in a house fire in their hometown of Mezzocorona, Italy, as reported by The US Sun . Marvin Vettori posted a heart-wrenching tribute on Instagram that revealed just how close their bond was. In a message translated from Italian, Vettori wrote: 'You were and will always be number 1, my little brother! You left us, leaving an unfillable void. I will love you until my last breath. I don’t think I’ll ever be the same after today, because maybe I never told you, but you were always my strength.

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A post shared by Marvin Vettori (@marvinvettori)

You were the sharpest and the smartest of the two of us. You were building a wonderful future for yourself, and I can’t come to terms with it. They say that Jesus calls back the most beautiful souls early to have them with Him in heaven—and so I hope that’s true, that you’re there with Him, watching over us with that kindness that always defined you. I love you, my brother. And even though it won’t be easy to continue life without you, it comforts me to know that one day I’ll be buried next to you. I love you.'

This personal loss comes during a pivotal moment in Vettori’s career. A perennial contender in the UFC’s middleweight division, Vettori has faced some of the sport’s toughest names and even challenged for the title against Israel Adesanya. Known for his durability and grit, Vettori now carries a different kind of weight into his next fight—a burden far heavier than any opponent. As he grieves and heals, fans and fellow fighters alike have rallied around him with heartfelt messages and support, hoping he finds strength in their compassion as he begins the next chapter of his journey.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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