UFC welterweight, and former Strikeforce middleweight champ, Jake Shields (26-5-1) suffered a close personal loss with the announcement that his father, Jack Shields, had passed away peacefully in his sleep.
“lost my father manager and one of my best friends today!! R.I.P jack you will be greatly missed and loved by many” – Jake Shields
Jack Shields was instrumental in his son’s MMA career. He taught Jake the values of hard work and perseverance. He was always there and was a fervent supporter through Jake’s early years in wrestling and when Jake transcended to MMA.
Jake is currently scheduled to face Jake Ellenberger on Sept. 17 in the main event of UFC Fight Night 25 in New Orleans. With just over two weeks to go before the bout, the fighter has a tough decision to make.
I’m sure that no one would hold the younger Shields at fault if he were to bow out to mourn the loss of his father, let alone mourn the man who helped make him who he is today.