Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) heavyweight Shane del Rosario died late Sunday night (Dec. 8, 2013) at Hoag Memorial Presbyterian Hospital in Newport Beach, Calif., following complications from cardiac arrest suffered in his home on Tuesday morning (Nov. 26, 2013).
As time progressed, "No Limits" showed no signs of improvement as his health took a turn for the worse on Thursday (Nov. 28, 2013) after the former Strikeforce contender displayed no sign of brain activity.
After he was taken off life support on Friday morning (Nov. 29, 2013), Shane managed to hold on for 10 more days, showing his true warrior spirit before passing late Sunday night.
Known for being a kind soul who was always looking for ways to give back, Del Rosario's family want to keep his memory and spirit alive as they intend to donate Shane's organs, something he wished for in an effort to save the lives of others.
Furthermore, the family plans to set up the Shane Del Rosario Long QT Foundation for disadvantaged children. Long QT Syndrome, a genetic anomaly that can cause life-threatening heart rhythm abnormalities or sudden death, is believed to have contributed to Shane's death.
From the press release (via Bleacher Report):
Shane lived up to his Hawaiian name, Kalani, Royal Warrior. He was a warrior and protector of his family, friends, and anyone that needed help. Now he is a Heavenly warrior and will continue his good works on a higher plane. Shane is now an Aumakua and will watch over us forever. Shane leaves a legacy of giving to others. In that spirit it was Shane's wish to donate his organs in hope of saving the precious lives of others. The family is also exploring establishing a scholarship fund for disadvantaged children and setting up a foundation, the Shane Del Rosario Long QT Foundation. Long QT Syndrome is the genetic anomaly that may have contributed to his passing.
Del Rosario amassed an impressive 11-0 mixed martial arts (MMA) record before making his Octagon debut in 2012.
And though he lost his first two fights inside the Octagon against Pat Barry and Stipe Miocic, Shane was scheduled to compete at UFC 168 on Dec. 28, 2013 against Guto Inocente in an effort to right his ship. A rib injury, however, forced him out of the event.
Shane was just 30 years old.