‘Athlete of the century’: MMA fighters mourn death of soccer legend Pelé

UFC and MMA notables paid tribute to soccer star Pelé after news of his death.

One of the biggest sports stars in history is dead.

Brazilian soccer legend Edson Arantes do Nascimento, or better known as Pelé, died on Thursday at the age of 82. Pelé’s daughter, Kely Nascimento announced the news on Instagram.

Pele was admitted to a hospital in Sao Paulo in November following a respiratory infection and complications related to colon cancer. Last week, his conditioned worsened.

Many across the world have flooded the Internet paying their respects to the three-time World Cup champion – including many in the combat sports community.

Below is how fighters reacted to the news of the passing of Pele: