RIP K-1 legend Mike Bernardo, 1969-2012
A reliable source close to the situation has confirmed that K-1 legend and one-time MMA fighter Mike Bernardo has passed…
A reliable source close to the situation has confirmed that K-1 legend and one-time MMA fighter Mike Bernardo has passed away at the age of 42 in his home city of Cape Town.
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There has been no official cause of death released, but students and friends on social networks have repeatedly referenced suicide.
Bernardo made his K-1 debut in K-1 World GP 1995 Opening against Andy Hug. His career victories include Mirko ‘CroCop’, Francisco Filho, Andy Hug, and three straight over Peter Aerts. He won the K-1 Grand Prix 2000.
Bernardo also competed occasionally as a boxer, taking the WBF heavyweight world championship in 2000, and defending it against the infamous Peter McNeely in 2001. He lost the belt in 2002 due to inactivity.
He had a single foray in MMA, drawing vs. Nobuhiko Takada in 2001. It can be said of his MMA fighting that he was one of the most exciting fighters in K-1 history.
On New Year’s Eve of 2004, Bernardo was going to face Nigerian fighter and Japanese-TV personality Bobby Ologun in “K1-Dynamite!” but couldn’t take part in the event due to an injury. He retired that year and found sucess as a coach at his own gym.
