Obituary: Taylor Wily, First UFC Fighter, Dies at 56

From the Octagon to the Silver Screen

Taylor Wily, the actor and former mixed martial artist who became the first knockout victim in UFC history, has passed away at the age of 56. Wily, who was born Teila Tuli, was a well-known sumo wrestler and UFC 1 fighter before he transitioned to acting.

Early Life and Career

Wily was born on June 14, 1968, in Laie, Hawaii. He began his martial arts training at a young age and eventually became a professional sumo wrestler. In 1993, he made history by becoming the first fighter to step inside the Octagon during a UFC broadcast.

Wily faced Gerard Gordeau in the inaugural UFC fight and was knocked out by a kick that sent a tooth flying. Despite his defeat, Wily's performance helped establish the UFC as a global phenomenon.

Acting Career

After his MMA career, Wily transitioned to acting. He appeared in a number of films and television shows, including "Hawaii Five-0," "Lost," and "The Walking Dead." Wily's most notable role was as a recurring character on the popular CW series "The Vampire Diaries."

Legacy and Impact

Taylor Wily's legacy will forever be intertwined with the history of the UFC. As the first fighter to enter the Octagon, he paved the way for countless others who have followed in his footsteps. Wily's passing is a reminder of the sacrifices and risks that MMA pioneers took to establish the sport as it is today.

Wily passed away on June 20, 2024, at the age of 56. He is survived by his wife and children.