The untimely loss of 18-year-old ONE Championship fighter Victoria Lee has sent shockwaves through the MMA community. Her passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and condolences from her fellow fighters, trainers, fans, and the wider martial arts community. And recently, Victoria’s training partner and good friend Lea Bivins took to Instagram to express her grief and mourn the sudden passing of Lee. In her post, Bivin shared memories and a photograph of their time together and expressed her heartbreak over the loss of her dear friend. She also shared how much Victoria’s friendship meant to her and how much she will miss her. Furthermore, she referred to Victoria as a ‘beautiful soul’.
Lea Bivins pens down her sorrow
Since the day they first met in Rome for an MMA match, Lea Bivins and Victoria Lee have been the closest of friends. They used to train together at Victoria’s home gym, which has now been closed since she passed away. The 20-year-old posted a video of them training together on her Instagram, along with a tribute to Victoria Lee.
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Bivins wrote, “Rest In Peace to such an amazing beautiful soul gone too soon thank you for the memories and friendship my deepest condolences to your family and loved ones we all miss you @victorialee.mma”
Victoria Lee was in the early stages of a promising career and had already made a name for herself in the ONE Championship circuit. But unfortunately, life intervened, and she is no longer with us. However, Chatri Sityodtong is adamant about immortalizing her in his homage.
Chatri Sityodtong to memorialize Victoria Lee forever
Many ONE Championship competitors, including the organization’s head Chatri Sityodtong, have expressed their sorrow and shared their memories of the late Victoria. Sityodtong has declared ‘Victoria Lee Day’, too, in an effort to show honor and preserve her memory.
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The 52-year-old told SCMP, “I’m in daily contact with the family. And you know, I’m thinking now that January 14 is probably going to be Victoria Lee Day forever with ONE Championship… Angela and I are figuring out a way to (honor her)”,
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The death of Victoria Lee at such a young age is a tragic loss for the martial arts community. She will be remembered as a talented and dedicated athlete, a friend, and a positive influence on many.