Veteran mixed martial artist Sherman “The Tank” Pendergarst lost his battle with cancer today, according to Pat Miletich.

Although never a household name in the sport, Pendergarst competed against a number of UFC veterans throughout his career, including the likes of Shane Carwin, Joey Beltran, and Houston Alexander.

The Iowa resident made a single appearance for the sport’s top organisation, losing to Antoni Hardonk at UFC 65.

A student of the Miletich Fighting Systems, “The Tank” began his career late, making his debut against Chris Dippolito at the age of 38, and went on to compile a career record of 11-18 (1).

Pendergarst fought as recently as February of this year, against Bruce Nelson, in a bout that was ruled a no-contest.

Sherman Pendergarst was 45 years old at the time of his passing.