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UFC Veteran Tim Kennedy Shot Three Times in Deadly Congo Ambush
Amir Azimi
Daily News

UFC Veteran Tim Kennedy Shot Three Times in Deadly Congo Ambush

Tim Kennedy Wounded in Congo Attack

Former UFC middleweight Tim Kennedy was seriously injured during an ambush in the Democratic Republic of Congo on September 17. The attack left around 20 people either dead or injured. Kennedy, who is also a former U.S. Army Green Beret, suffered three gunshot wounds to his leg and is currently being treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center near Washington, D.C.

Details of the Ambush

The incident occurred in South Kivu province. According to a Reuters report, among the victims were at least seven Congolese nationals and a former member of New Zealand's Special Forces. Kennedy was part of a team working for Vectus Global, a private security and consulting firm founded by Erik Prince, the ex-head of Blackwater. The group was moving between locations when the ambush happened.

Updates and Background

Wisconsin Representative Derrick Van Orden confirmed on Sunday that he had spoken directly with Kennedy after the attack. He wrote, "I just spoke to my dear friend @TimKennedyMMA. That means he is not dead and that means I am thankful. I am asking everyone to pray for his healing and that his wonderful family find Peace."

At 47 years old, Kennedy last fought in the UFC in 2016. His final two bouts ended in losses to Yoel Romero and Kelvin Gastelum. Earlier, he had a streak of three UFC victories over Michael Bisping, Roger Gracie, and Rafael Natal. Kennedy also challenged twice for the Strikeforce middleweight title but did not win, falling short in 2010 and 2012.

In 2025, Kennedy faced criticism after admitting he had fabricated a part of his military history. He had previously claimed to have received a Bronze Star Medal with Valor, which was later proven false.

  • Date of Ambush: September 17
  • Location: South Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Number of casualties: Approximately 20 killed or wounded
  • Victims: At least 7 Congolese nationals, 1 former New Zealand Special Forces member
  • Kennedy's injuries: Three gunshot wounds to the leg
  • Current treatment: Walter Reed National Military Medical Center
  • Employment: Vectus Global (private security)
  • UFC record: 18-6 MMA

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