The heart attack that killed Shawn Tompkins may not have come out of the blue.
Tompkins' manager, Gary Ibarra of Athletic Management & Representation Group, today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) that the renowned trainer had an enlarged heart and major blockages in his arteries that may have contributed to his death.
"Shawn's family has a major history of heart issues," Ibarra said.
Tompkins was in London, Ontario, Canada helping longtime student Chris Horodecki prepare for a fight when he was found Sunday morning by a friend. An autopsy was performed Monday, said Ibarra, which confirmed details of his death.
UFC lightweight Sam Stout, Tompkins' longtime student and brother-in-law, today told the London Free Press that a heart attack was the culprit.
"Heart disease is something that's hereditary, no matter how much you eat correctly and exercise," Ibarra said.
A Las Vegas memorial service is currently being planned.
As MMAjunkie.com reported earlier today, a guestbook and memorial fund have been established for Tompkins.
Those interested in contributing to Tompkins' memorial fund can send an email to TeamTompkins@ShogunMMA.com. Further details on the memorial service will be announced at AMRGroup.tv.
Source: Manager says heart issues ran in Shawn Tompkins' family