Former UFC athlete Suman Mokhtarian is fighting for his life after being ambushed and shot multiple times during what should have been a peaceful evening walk in a quiet Sydney suburb.
Brutal Attack in Residential Neighbourhood
The violent incident unfolded around 8:20 PM on Wednesday in Greenacre, a typically tranquil residential area in Sydney's south-west. Emergency services rushed to the scene after receiving multiple reports of gunfire.
According to New South Wales Police, the 32-year-old mixed martial arts fighter was walking along Boronia Road when an unknown assailant opened fire. Mokhtarian sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his body and was found in critical condition by first responders.
Rushed to Hospital in Critical Condition
Paramedics worked frantically at the scene to stabilise the injured fighter before transporting him to Liverpool Hospital. Medical staff have described his condition as "critical but stable" as he undergoes emergency treatment.
Detective Superintendent Grant Healey confirmed that Mokhtarian was "the intended target of a planned attack" and that the shooting appeared to be a targeted incident rather than a random act of violence.
UFC Career and Fighting Background
Suman Mokhtarian, along with his brother Ashkan, made history as the first Iranian-born fighters to compete in the UFC. Although his time in the premier mixed martial arts organisation was brief, Mokhtarian maintained an impressive professional record of 8 wins and 3 losses before retiring from competitive fighting.
The Mokhtarian brothers have been prominent figures in Sydney's combat sports community, running their own martial arts gym and training facility in the area.
Police Investigation Underway
Authorities have established a crime scene spanning several blocks and are conducting door-to-door inquiries in the neighbourhood. Forensic specialists are meticulously examining the area for evidence, including shell casings and any potential surveillance footage.
No arrests have been made at this stage, and police are appealing to the public for information about any suspicious vehicles or individuals seen in the Greenacre area around the time of the shooting.
Detective Superintendent Healey urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasising that "this was a brazen attack in a residential area that has left a young man fighting for his life."
