Former Legacy FC fighter turned UFC center cage referee Chris Reed has been found dead, USA Today reports, following a boating accident in Galveston Bay, Texas. The incident took place June 7, when a large wave from a passing vessel threw Reed overboard. Reed was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident.
In addition to working with the UFC, Reed served as Police Chief for the city of Kemah, Texas.
He began his career in the fight world as a light heavyweight competitor, going 5-2 during his contract with Legacy. After his last fight–a knockout win–in 2013, Reed stayed in the cage but moved into reffing for promotions including Fury and UFC. He went on to adjudicate 200+ matches.
Reed had been fishing with his wife at the time his body went missing on June 7. His wife was not thrown from their vessel and was unharmed. The Coast Guard and local agencies searched over 650 miles of water before finding his body near the Texas City Dike two days later. A retired army paratrooper, Reed is suspected to have been injured or incapacitated during his fall from the boat.
Rest in Peace officer Reed. Saw him fight and referee at the Arena Theater. Tough loss for the Texas mma community.
— joe from htown (@joedaddy85) June 9, 2019https://t.co/zIX0aqvb8N
Our thoughts are with his family and community.
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