Bellator veteran Isaiah Chapman dead after shooting in Akron, arrest reportedly made

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Bellator veteran and Ohio native Isaiah Chapman was pronounced dead on Tuesday following a shooting in Akron, Ohio.

According to the Akron Police, officers responded to a shooting on the 300 block of Reed Avenue at 9:40 p.m. on Tuesday night.

The 30-year-old victim was found in the street with gunshot wounds before being transported to Summa Akron City Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The Summit County Medical Examiner later identified Chapman as the victim.

The incident took place on Tuesday night at approximately 9:40 p.m. Multiple shots were fired and Chapman was pronounced dead at the hospital.

According to a report from the Akron Beacon Journal, 29-year-old Christopher Blouir was later arrested and charged with murder in the case.

A stalwart of the Ohio fight scene, Chapman started his career as part of the NAAFS, which is the same organization where future UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic previously competed.

Chapman eventually earned an opportunity to compete in World Series of Fighting in 2014 before returning to the regional fight scene where he primarily competed in Honor Fighting Championships.

Last October, Chapman was called up on short notice to face rising bantamweight star Patrick “Patchy” Mix at Bellator 232. He lost the fight by Suloev stretch in the opening round.

Bellator is saddened by the news of Isaiah Chapman’s passing. Our deepest and most sincere condolences are with his family and friends during this difficult time.

Hit the link below to donate at gofundme.https://t.co/P23ztU6kd5 pic.twitter.com/OCrKpkcn5Y

— BellatorMMA (@BellatorMMA) April 9, 2020

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help pay for Chapman’s funeral costs. He is survived by his three children.