UFC Veteran Tim Kennedy Shot Three Times in Deadly Congo Attack
Tim Kennedy, a former UFC middleweight and ex-U.S. Army Green Beret, was wounded during a violent attack in the Democratic Republic of Congo on September 17. He suffered three gunshot wounds to his leg amid an ambush that left about 20 people either killed or injured.
Details of the Attack
The incident took place in South Kivu province where Kennedy was part of a group traveling between locations. The team included Congolese nationals and a former member of New Zealand’s Special Forces. The ambush claimed multiple casualties, with at least seven locals and others affected.
Kennedy is currently receiving care at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center near Washington, D.C., as confirmed by Newsweek and Reuters.
Personal Update and Background
Rep. Derrick Van Orden from Wisconsin shared on Sunday that he spoke directly with Kennedy after the attack. He expressed relief that Kennedy survived and asked for prayers for his recovery and peace for his family.
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.
Kennedy, age 47, was reportedly working with Vectus Global, a private security firm founded by Erik Prince, formerly of Blackwater. The Reuters report detailed that the team was ambushed while moving between sites.
MMA Career Highlights
Tim Kennedy last competed in the UFC in 2016, ending with a record of 18 wins and 6 losses. His last two fights were losses against Yoel Romero and Kelvin Gastelum. Before those bouts, he secured three consecutive UFC wins over Michael Bisping, Roger Gracie, and Rafael Natal.
He also challenged twice for the Strikeforce middleweight title but did not capture the championship in 2010 and 2012.
Controversy
In 2025, Kennedy faced criticism after admitting he fabricated parts of his military record, including false claims about receiving a Bronze Star Medal with Valor.
