MMA community mourns the sudden death of longtime trainer Robert Follis

You don’t realize how much of an impact you had on my life. A good coach is so much more than someone to teach techniques. Through the darkest moments in my career and life you’ve helped me see the light and keep pushing. I thank you for everything and apologize for everything more. The next gold belt is for you.

A post shared by MTP (@motownphenom) on Dec 17, 2017 at 9:57am PST

Sucks to wake up and hear this news. RIP @robertfollis such a nice guy. pic.twitter.com/gU8knnBmyh

— Dana White (@danawhite) December 17, 2017

A friend is a person who is there for you when you need an ear to listen or a shoulder to lean on. We are friends and I am terribly sorry that my ear or shoulder wasn't enough to help you get through difficult times. We have love and respect for you Coach/Partner/Friend! Every MMA victory that our fighters have will always be a testament of your Great Coaching! You will be missed Follis; now get your gym in the Heavens up and running well!! This "Fight Thing" was a lifestyle for you; so it doesn't stop after your physical life! Make sure you keep making Champions in the Heavens above bro!!! Until we speak again! Rest in Peace Robert Follis #RestInTheHeavensCoachRobertFollis #BKSS #follismma #MTP #noadlahat

A post shared by Dewey Cooper (@dcblackkobra) on Dec 17, 2017 at 3:42am PST

Stunned and saddened to hear about Robert follis passing. We both graduated as instructors under @aliveness_ape he went on to do great things with Team Quest and more recently Extreme Couture. A truly great coach who was always quick to offer advice. RIP Robert

— Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) December 17, 2017

I became good friends with Robert Follis throughout filming of TUF 25 I just stayed at his house last week I haven’t heard what happened can anyone fill me in? He was an awesome guy and the more I got to know him the more respect I had for him

— Matt Brown (@IamTheImmortal) December 17, 2017

Deeply saddened this morning to learn that Robert Follis has passed away. Truly one of the best coaches and one of the most kind, considerate men I have met in MMA, or any walk of life. May he rest in peace. And may all the fighters he impacted continue his fine legacy. What a loss.

A post shared by Jon Anik (@jon_anik) on Dec 17, 2017 at 6:58am PST

Absolutely awful to hear that Robert Follis passed away That man helped a ton of fighters, directly and indirectly. Hard to think of all the loved ones he leaves behind. for everyone that was close to him, I’m so sorry.

— Lauren Murphy (@LaurenMurphyMMA) December 17, 2017

Extremely saddened to hear the news about Robert Follis. Heartbroken for his family and close friends. He was truly one of the good guys in the sport.

— Kenny Florian (@kennyflorian) December 17, 2017

I am in Finland at this moment and got word that Robert Follis has passed away. Hoping this is wrong!! This is a huge loss if true. One of the finest trainers and men in the world of MMA. Please, please be fake news

— Big John McCarthy (@JohnMcCarthyMMA) December 17, 2017

@MoTownPhenom All bullshit side, I send my condolences man. My prayers go out to you and those affected by Robert’s passing.

— Michael Chiesa (@MikeMav22) December 17, 2017

Very sad to hear the news about the passing of Robert Follis. Over the years of working in this industry he had became a good friend... my thoughts and prayers are with him, his family and students. RIP.

A post shared by Brian Butler-Au (@suckerpunchent) on Dec 17, 2017 at 8:34am PST

I can’t imagine where my life would be today if I never knew Robert Follis
As my coach, my brother, my friend, we shared so many meaningful times together.
It breaks my heart knowing we’ve lost him so soon.
He impacted THOUSANDS and made me a better man along the way.

— Nathan Quarry (@NateRockQuarry) December 17, 2017

Such shitty news. RIP Robert Follis, one of the first coaches I got to know in MMA. Such a kind and genuine person. My heart is heavy, my deepest condolences to his close family, friends and students left behind. Rest easy Robert.

— Audie A. Attar (@AudieAttar) December 17, 2017

Deeply saddened to hear my friend @RobertFollis passed away yesterday. I'm at a loss for words and my heart hurts for the MMA community that has lost a great human to the cosmos. See you on the other side coach.

— FRANK TRIGG (@FRANKTRIGG) December 17, 2017

Terrible news about @robertfollis and deeply sadden to all those who are affected. Glad I was… https://t.co/MlPhr7ZJTX

— Jessica Eye (@jessicaevileye) December 17, 2017