Today we got the horrible news that retired NBA superstar Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter accident that claimed the lives of all nine people on board. Details are still trickling in regarding the incident but thus far it has been confirmed that his 13 year old daughter Gianna was also on board during the crash.
It’s just awful news that has spread through the entire sporting community like wildfire. Many can’t believe it, including a lot of the mixed martial arts community. Bryant wasn’t a regular fixture in the sport like some others, but provided enough inspiration through his excellence that many shared their thoughts and prayers on the situation through social media. Here’s a small selection.
A million apologies and condolences we just lost a super athlete #ripKobe
— Jorge Masvidal UFC (@GamebredFighter) January 26, 2020
Just sad man…
Woke up to the news and it’s sad az.— Israel Adesanya (@stylebender) January 26, 2020
I am beyond sorry for the loss of Kobe Bryant and all fellow passengers on that fateful flight. He left a legacy few can hold a candle to. Remember, tomorrow is not guaranteed, LIVE YOUR FUCKING LIFE!!!
— michael (@bisping) January 26, 2020
Fuck man rest easy Kobe Byrant your legacy will live forever
— Dillon Danis (@dillondanis) January 26, 2020
I’ll rephrase my last tweet since everyone wants to talk shit.
TMZ just reported that Kobe Bryant has passed away in a helicopter crash in Calabasas. I hope it’s not true but if it is, my condolences go out to his family and the millions of lives he positively impacted.
— Michael Chiesa (@MikeMav22) January 26, 2020
If the news about @kobebryant is true my heart breaks for the loss and my thoughts and prayers are with his family during this devastating time. RIP to one of the best to ever play the game.
— KEN SHAMROCK (@ShamrockKen) January 26, 2020
People always ask if I’m related to Kobe Bryant. I’m not, but I am very sad to hear the news of his passing. What a shame. He was lovely the few times I spoke with him… #RIPMAMBA #RIPKobeBryant
— Karyn Bryant (@KarynBryant) January 26, 2020
Bruh wtf !?!?!!?!!??!!!
— Platinum Mike Perry (@PlatinumPerry) January 26, 2020
Just landed … Heartbreaking news. Rest In Peace to an absolute legend.
— Megan Olivi (@MeganOlivi) January 26, 2020
Man Kobe was one of my fav/ greatest athletes of all time . RIP to a great one
— Eryk Anders (@erykanders) January 26, 2020
Can’t believe what I just heard. My heart is broken. God bless his family. @kobebryant
— glover teixeira (@gloverteixeira) January 26, 2020
Our condolences go out to the families of everyone involved. Take a moment to reach out to your loved ones in these tough times, you never know when they might be gone all too soon.