UFC veteran Jay Silva died less than a week after his 45th birthday.
Silva (12-14-1) enjoyed a pro MMA career that spanned 17 years and had two fights inside the Octagon, suffering consecutive decision losses to CB Dollaway (UFC Fight Night 19) and Chris Leben (UFC Fight Night 20) before heading to Bellator MMA, where “Da Spyder Killer” — a nickname he earned for defeating Kendall Grove at SCC 4 — fell to Cuban bruiser Hector Lombard.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of FAME fighter Jay Silva,” a representative from Polish MMA promotion FAME MMA wrote on social media. “Through his performances, Jay brought a great smile, positive energy, and the professionalism of a true athlete. He will forever remain a part of our federation’s history! We extend our sincerest condolences to Jay’s loved ones, family, and friends. Rest in peace!”
A cause of death has not been revealed.
Silva only had a cup of coffee in UFC but continued to enjoy a long career in cage fighting, facing everyone from Alex Pereira’s head coach, Plinio Cruz, at KAP: “The Return of Macaco” in 2009 to World’s Strongest Man, Mariusz Pudzianowski, at KSW 40: “Dublin” in 2017. His most recent bout ended in a unanimous decision loss to Denis Labryga at FAME 25: “Czestochowa” in April 2025.
The Californian also registered a pair of kickboxing fights in 2023 and 2026.
