Stephan Bonnar | Fentanyl Overdose Death

Stephan Bonnar was an American mixed martial artist of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Sadly, Bonnar passed away at the age of 45 from an accidental fentanyl overdose.

How Stephan Bonnar Died

UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar died from an accidental fentanyl overdose on December 22, 2022 at the age of 45. 

Although the UFC issued a statement revealing Bonnar died from presumed heart complications, it was later revealed by the Clark County Coroner’s office that his cause of death was due to a drug overdose of the synthetic opioid fentanyl.

Bonnar ultimately died from parafluorofentanyl, fentanyl, and mitragynine intoxication.

Stephan Bonnar’s History Of Substance Abuse & Rehab

Bonnar received a DUI in October 2018 after reports were made of reckless driving. He was charged with resisting arrest as well.

During a 2021 interview with MMA Fighting, Bonnar spoke of his long-term use of the opioid oxycodone to assist him with his injuries sustained during his career.

Sadly, there are no known instances in which Bonnar sought addiction treatment. 

About Stephan Bonnar

Stephan Bonnar was born in Hammond, Indiana, on April 4, 1977. He attended Munster High School where he embraced his passion of various combat sports, later becoming well-known for his participation in wrestling, Muay Thai, Tae Kwon Do, and others.

UFC Career

Bonnar competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) against Forrest Griffin in the Light Heavyweight finals. 

Although Bonnar lost the brawl to Griffin due to an unanimous decision, the UFC President Dana White awarded Bonnar a six-figure UFC contract due to his skills.

Known as “The American Psycho,” Bonnar continued his career in Las Vegas, facing off against other wrestlers and defeating other prominent figures in the industry. His reign came to an end after losing to Rashad Evans.

Later in 2006, he competed in a rematch against Griffin, losing once again to the fighter. The rematch was the main event of the season, with many tuning in to watch the two veteran performers fight again.

Bonnar returned and fought against Jon Jones and Mark Coleman, ultimately losing in both UFC fights. In 2010, he participated in The Ultimate Fighter 12 Finale and won.

The UFC fighter squared up against Anderson Silva in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil in October 2012, with Silva winning due to TKO. Afterward, Bonnar retired from MMA fighting and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2013.

In 2014, Bonnar fought in the Bellator 131 against Tito Ortiz. Bonnar’s mixed martial arts career spanned decades.

Recovery Is Possible

Bonnar’s death rocked the MMA community and devastated his countless fans. His death serves as a reminder of the dangers of drug use as well as the importance of treatment.

At Ark Behavioral Health, we provide a wide-range of treatment services that can help make recovery possible for yourself of a loved one. To learn about our treatment options, please contact us today.