A man who was fatally attacked by a bear in northern Saskatchewan on May 8 aspired to become a professional mixed martial arts fighter, as revealed by his brother. Hrishikesh Koloth, aged 27 and originally from Kerala, India, was employed at a uranium exploration site when the tragic incident occurred.
Having dedicated over ten years to training in MMA, Hrishikesh pursued his passion in both India and Canada, where he settled three years ago. He resided in Penticton, B.C., with his elder brother Arjun Koloth.
Hrishikesh was working on a contract as a technician at the Zoo Bay property managed by UraniumX Discovery Corp, based in Vancouver. The site is located close to Nordbye Lake, approximately 850 kilometers northeast of Saskatoon.
Arjun described his brother as a determined individual with aspirations and stated, “That was his dream. That’s why he came here. He wanted to fight in the UFC.” Hrishikesh trained at Skoden Martial Arts in Penticton, where his potential was highly regarded. Arjun expressed deep sorrow over the tragic outcome, emphasizing that it should not have happened.
Recounting the moment he received the devastating news, Arjun shared that an RCMP officer informed him of his brother’s passing in Saskatchewan early in the morning. A civilian present at the scene intervened by shooting the bear, which was subsequently sent to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon for examination.
UraniumX Discovery Corp confirmed the loss of one of its contractors and extended condolences to the bereaved family. Arjun mentioned that Hrishikesh was set to commence a job as a boxing coach in Vancouver in June, highlighting that for his brother, the job was merely a stepping stone to fulfill his ultimate goal of fighting professionally.
Arjun described Hrishikesh as a humble, fearless, and loving individual who cherished his family deeply. He recalled his brother’s unwavering courage and determination in pursuing his passion for martial arts, emphasizing his resilience and commitment to his craft.
Currently in Kerala for his brother’s funeral, Arjun expressed his desire for Hrishikesh to be remembered as a warrior and a dreamer. He emphasized his brother’s bravery and spirit, stating, “I want him to be remembered for what he does. Innocent heart, fighter’s soul. Warrior.”
The tragic bear attack marks the fourth recorded fatal incident involving a bear in Saskatchewan’s history. The most recent incident occurred in 2020 when Stephanie Blais, aged 44, lost her life near her family’s cabin north of Buffalo Narrows.