Jake Shields Opts to Remain in Main Event of UFC Fight Night 25

Jake Shields

Despite his father, Jack, passing away earlier this week, UFC welterweight contender Jake Shields has opted to remain in the main event of the upcoming UFC Fight Night 25: Shields vs. Ellenberger.

He will meet Jake Ellenberger in the final bout of the evening on Sept. 17 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. The main card airs live on Spike TV.

Shields’ longtime trainer, Cesar Gracie, confirmed his fighter’s participation to MMAWeekly.com on Wednesday, saying simply, “He will fight.”

Jake’s father passed away peacefully during his sleep overnight on Monday. An avid supporter of his son, he served as manager as well as engaged parent. Jack Shields was 67 at the time of his death.

“Lost my father, manager, and one of my best friends today! R.I.P. Jack, you will be greatly missed and loved by many,” wrote Jake on his team’s Gracie Fighter website on Tuesday.

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