Popular MMA and fitness coach, Leroy Saunders has passed away while competing at the BYD HYROX event in Bangkok, Thailand.
Saunders, a 41-year-old South African coach and MMA trainer, who had worked with athletes like ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Champion, Tawanchai PK.Saenchai, was competing at the BYD HYROX event held in Bangkok between August 13 and 16 but lost consciousness on the first day of the competition held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
The New York Post reports that Saunders’ condition rapidly deteriorated, and the strength and conditioning coach was given immediate CPR before being transferred to hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead. The tragic news was then confirmed by Leroy Sunders’ family on Aug.18, 2026.
Coach Leroy Saunders Dies During HYROX Wvent in Bangkok
“Last Thursday we unfortunately lost Leroy due to reasons we are still trying to understand,” read the family statement. “What we can share without doubt is that until the last second of this moment, Leroy lived his life without regret or hesitation and impacted hundreds if not thousands to do the same throughout his journey.”
Before his untimely death, Leroy Saunders had been the owner of IAOT CrossFit in Bangkok and was the strength and conditioning coach behind “Fight by Design,” helping MMA, Muay Thai athletes, and boxers of all levels. He had almost 45,000 Instagram followers who watched his fitness, workout, and injury prevention tips.
How Is the Fitness Community Honoring Leroy Saunders’ Legacy?
In tribute to Leroy’s lasting legacy, the Thai CrossFit community got together on August 23 to complete the “Leroy” partner workout in celebration of his contributions to the field. “We gave every rep, every movement, and every bit of energy with you in our hearts,” read an Instagram post following the uplifting event. “We hope you were watching and feeling proud of us.”
A whydonate page established to raise money for Leroy Saunders’ memorial fund has also raised more than 300,000 Thai bahts / $9,000 US. To support the fund, click here.