Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Champion Leandro Fatally Shot In The Head By 'Off-Duty Policeman'

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion has been fatally shot in the head by an off-duty police officer during a concert.

Leandro Lo Pereira do Nascimento, better known as Leandro Lo, died on Sunday.

Leandro was at a concert in Sao Paulo when he got into a scuffle with another man and was shot in the forehead.

The fighter was immediately taken to the hospital but only hours later he was declared dead.

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According to the witnesses, police officer Henrique Otávio Oliveira Velozo take a bottle from Lo’s table at Clube Sirio, according to a report on MMA Fighting.

This led to a fight between the two as Lo took the officer and held him on the ground.

However, once they were separated, witnesses say Velozo got back to his feet and then pulled out a gun, firing at Lo’s forehead.

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Lo was taken to Dr. Arthur Ribeiro de Saboya Hospital, where he later died. Lo’s lawyer has since confirmed his death, reports MailOnline.

Police have now launched a murder investigation, in which Velozo is a suspect.

Lo who has won eight World Championship titles as a black belt since 2012 was one of the most successful Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors of all time.

The man also won gold in the light heavyweight division in California earlier this year.

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He had a long list of remarkable acheivements under his belt and had also claimed several International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation trophies, eight Pan-American titles, seven Copa Podio grand prix, and two European Opens as well as four Brazilian Nationals.

The sudden news of his death has left the world of martial arts reeling with shock.

Tributes have come pouring in for Lo on social media with former UFC fighter, Kenny Florian, calling it “a very sad day for the BJJ community”. He added that “Leandro was a legend.”

Former MMA artist and commentator, Josh Thomson, said: “The word legend is thrown around way to much in sports but it can’t be thrown around enough when it comes to your name in Jiu Jitsu. Leandro Lo, my heart and prayers to your family my brother. Rest easy my friend.”

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He was joined by UFC commentator, John Gooden, who wrote: “Saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Leandro Lo. One of the greatest Jiu Jitsu players ever. Absolutely tragic. My condolences to his family and friends.”

American mixed martial artist, Dillon Danis, also paid tribute, writing: “RIP my brother Leandro Lo” followed by a heart emoji.