The MMA world has suffered a great loss as longtime coach and a pioneer of the mixed martial arts scene in Texas, Saul Soliz, has tragically passed away at the age of 55.
One of Soliz's close friends John Gomez confirmed the unfortunate news in a post to Facebook, saying the cause of death was due to COVID-19. Soliz was the head coach of Houston-based gym Metro Fight Club and has trained a plethora of fighters such as UFC Hall of Famers Tito Ortiz, Kevin Randleman, and Mark Coleman as well as current Bellator women's featherweight champion Cris Cyborg, former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, former UFC heavyweight champion Ricco Rodriguez, Yves Edwards, Mark Kerr, Matt Hamill, Melvin Guillard, Carlo Prater, and Pete Spratt. He also appeared on two seasons of The Ultimate Fighter as an assistant coach on Team Ortiz and was currently the head coach of rising UFC bantamweight prospects Adrian Yanez and Mana Martinez, as well as Fury FC prospects Kolton Englund, Justice Torres, and Michael Aswell.
The following tributes have come out for Soliz from his fighters, friends, and peers. Our condolences go out to Soliz's family and friends during this time.
Just learned of the incredibly sad news that coach Saul Soliz has passed away. A great man and truly one of the best coaches I’ve worked with. Anyone know what happened? Literally just saw a post but no info. RIP Saul, you made a huge impression on me when you coached me on TUF.
— michael (@bisping) August 17, 2021
Rest In Peace to the great Saul Soliz. He was a Texas MMA OG and pioneer of the sport in this state. He will be missed by many as his impact was far and wide. His legacy will live on thru his fighters --RIP Coach
— Sayif Saud (@sayif_saud) August 17, 2021
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