Longtime MMA head coach Robert Follis dies

One of the most accomplished coaches in mixed martial arts has died.

Robert Follis, who most recently was the head coach at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas, died Friday, his girlfriend Myra Fukuno confirmed Sunday on Facebook.

“Robert Follis, a man who has touched and changed so many lives, passed away on Dec. 15, 2017,” she wrote. “He was kind. He was loving. He was compassionate. Robert was an incredible teacher, who opened our minds and created a space where we knew learning was possible. He had a way of pulling the best out of us. He will be remembered as a beloved friend, brother, son, mentor, and coach by many.”

The cause of death was not confirmed as of Sunday evening.

Fukuno wrote that Follis’ family has asked for privacy during this difficult time. However, an e-mail address has been set up for those who knew Follis to share stories and photos: robertfollismemorial@gmail.com.

“We may not be able to respond, but please know that we will sort through them as part of our healing process,” Fukuno wrote. “Thank you for your patience and understanding. Memorial service information will follow at a later time.”

Many of Follis’ friends, colleagues and students honored him Sunday on social media.

Follis coached at Xtreme Couture for four years, but left there earlier this month. He was the head coach for the likes of UFC fighters Miesha Tate, Kevin Lee and Bryan Caraway.

Before that, the Oregon native was the longtime coach and co-owner at the legendary Team Quest in Portland, helping guide Randy Couture, Dan Henderson and many more MMA luminaries from early on in their careers. Follis was partners with Couture and Matt Lindlandstarting in 1998 and was with the Gresham, Ore., team for 10 years.