A day after the remains found in Alabama's woods was confirmed to be of his missing stepdaughter, UFC fighter Walt Harris posted an emotional tribute calling his pain "unbearable."

Harris' 19-year-old stepdaughter, Aniah Blanchard, had been missing since Oct. 23 after she was last heard from Auburn, Alabama. Harris, who was very active on his social media during the search, had even started a hashtag #FindAniah. After the girl was found dead, a grieving Harris called her his biggest fan.

"My sweet baby girl… I just wanna thank you for helping me change my life for the better… For teaching me how to be a man and a better father! For being my biggest fan win, lose, or draw! For always knowing what to say to put a smile on my face and lift me up when I was down and wanted to give up. This pain is unbearable… I know you want me to be strong but it so hard baby it so hard. I’m gonna find a way I promise you I will. Right now nothing makes sense and I’m so lost. I just want you back. I hope I made you proud… I’m gonna keep going daddy just needs time. I love you so much," he wrote on his Instagram account.

UFC Octagon
An amateur MMA bout between Joe Fisher and Caleb Frasher ended in a knockout and prompted Fisher's mother to climb into the cage (not pictured here) to check on her unconscious son. Reuters

According to news reports, the authorities have revealed that the case has been upgraded to a homicide investigation. The cause and manner of Aniah's death have not been confirmed yet but three suspects have been arrested in connection with her disappearance.

In another big news in the UFC, the former champion, Conor McGregor is set to return to the octagon on Jan. 18 to fight against Donald Cerrone.

"Breaking: Per Dana White (@danawhite), Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) has signed to face Donald Cerrone (@Cowboycerrone) at UFC 246 on Jan. 18, at welterweight - 'Conor has signed and Cerrone is ready to go'," Brett Okamoto of ESPN tweeted.

31-year-old McGregor, who has only one UFC appearance in the past three years, recently pleaded guilty to punching a man in a bar in April and was ordered to pay a fine. Last month, there were reports that McGregor is under investigation in Ireland for two sexual assault allegations. However, no charges were filed.

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