A man who aspired to be a professional mixed martial arts fighter was tragically killed in a rare bear attack in northern Saskatchewan on May 8, as revealed by his brother. Hrishikesh Koloth, 27, originally from Kerala, India, was employed at a uranium exploration site when the fatal encounter with a black bear occurred.
Having devoted over a decade to training in MMA, Hrishikesh pursued his passion first in India and then continued his journey in Canada after relocating three years ago. Residing in Penticton, B.C., alongside his elder brother Arjun Koloth, Hrishikesh worked as a technician on a contract basis at the Zoo Bay property managed by Vancouver-based UraniumX Discovery Corp, situated near Nordbye Lake, approximately 850 kilometers northeast of Saskatoon.
Describing Hrishikesh as a fighter and dreamer, Arjun expressed that his late brother’s ultimate goal was to compete in the UFC. Training at Skoden Martial Arts in Penticton, Hrishikesh had a supportive team that felt like a second family. The news of his tragic demise was delivered to Arjun by the RCMP in the early hours, shaking his world.
Following the bear attack, a civilian present at the site intervened and fatally shot the bear, which was subsequently taken to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon for further examination. UraniumX Discovery Corp acknowledged the loss of one of its contractors and extended condolences to the grieving family.
Arjun disclosed that Hrishikesh had plans to commence a job as a boxing coach in Vancouver the following month, emphasizing that for his brother, the job was merely a stepping stone towards his fighting ambitions. Remembering Hrishikesh as a humble, fearless individual deeply devoted to his family, Arjun highlighted his brother’s selfless nature and unwavering determination.
Presently in Kerala for his brother’s funeral and to support their family, Arjun emphasized his wish for Hrishikesh to be honored for his fighting spirit and aspirations. He emphasized Hrishikesh’s fearless attitude towards challenges in the ring, emphasizing his brother’s warrior mentality and the courage he displayed even in the face of the bear attack.
This incident marks only the fourth recorded fatal bear encounter in Saskatchewan’s history, the most recent being in 2020 when Stephanie Blais, 44, lost her life near her family’s cabin north of Buffalo Narrows.