Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
Aniah Blanchard was 19 years old.
UFC heavyweight Walt Harris took to Instagram today to share an emotional tribute to his stepdaughter Aniah Blanchard. This comes a day after Blanchard, 19, was declared deceased by authorities in Auburn, AL.
Using his account thebigticket205 wrote the following:
My sweet baby girl… I just wanna thank you for helping me change my life for the better… For teaching me how to be a man and a better father! For being my biggest fan win, lose , or draw! For always knowing what to say to put a smile on my face and lift me up when I was down and wanted to give up. You light up my world I’m so many ways. This pain is unbearable… I know you want me to be strong but it so hard baby it so hard. I’m gonna find away I promise you I will. Right now nothing makes sense and I’m so lost. I just want you back. I hope I made you proud… I’m gonna keep going daddy just needs time. I love you so much. Look after us like you always did. We need you now more than ever. My lil mighty mighty tiger is a angel now. I love you baby girl forever and ever!
Blanchard, who was studying at Southern Union college in Wadley, AL, was declared missing on October 24th. This week, her remains were located in Macon County, AL. Three individuals have been arrested in connection with her kidnapping. Lee County District Attorney Brandon Hughes has stated that more charges against those individuals are likely to follow.
UFC President Dana White, who appealed for information while Blanchard was missing and contributed $50,000 to a reward fund, also posted a tribute on social media.
My condolences go out to everyone that was touched by Aniah’s story and tried to help bring her home. (2/2)
— Dana White (@danawhite) November 27, 2019
In his post White wrote:
I’m devastated to hear this news. I’m heartbroken for Walt and his family. Thank you everyone for the support including the local and state Alabama law enforcement, media, athletes, managers and fans.
My condolences go out to everyone that was touched by Aniah’s story and tried to help bring her home.