Writing this news fills me with ache. Nicholas Lindley, popularly known as Saint, died in a car crash on December 11, 2025. He was still beginning life, sports, and everything else. I had to stop for a while after I read this because these stories hit very close to home.
The details about the crash have not been released at this time. Family and close pals rejoice in the privacy of their grief, which is understandable. It is something no family should ever go through, having lost a young and energetic person.
Saint’s parents are Paul and Wendy Badding Lindley, and he has two brothers, Jacob and Garrett Lindley. His dad shared a short message that says everything without saying too much. It says they lost their youngest son in a fatal car crash. Just reading that line feels heavy.
Nicholas Saint Lindley was not only the youngest but was already doing great things. He was an undefeated MMA fighter on the training roster at One Combat Academy. To be undefeated is not easy at all. One has to be very disciplined and mentally very strong. Having been watching local fighters train day and night, I know how much effort goes into that kind of record-keeping.
He was also a senior at Hinton High School, Iowa, class of 2025. Saint wrestled for the Hinton Blackhawks from 2020 to 2024. During his high school years, he competed in the 126-pound weight class, which became known for receiving many pins in key matches. If you’ve ever seen high school wrestling, you know how intense it gets, especially in close matches. Those moments stick with teammates forever.
Saint was also into football. He joined the football team in 2021. He played various positions, including wide receiver, cornerback, and running back, showing his versatility as an athlete. With that versatility, you could see how athletic he was. Coaches love it when a player gives everything wherever necessary.
Aaron Iacino, a One Combat Academy manager and trainer, shared a very moving message. He said the academy suffered a considerable loss. Aaron remembers Saint as being a great person and an undefeated MMA fighter. He also asked people to pray for the family and friends. Messages like that are precisely what made Saint not only a great athlete but a human being.
So far, the family has remained quiet on Funeral or memorial services. Many people are waiting patiently and respecting their privacy during this painful time.
Such moments remind me of how quickly life can change. One day, somebody is training, studying, and doing sports; the next moment, they are gone. It makes one think about appreciating people while they are still here.
My thoughts and prayers are with Paul, Wendy, Jacob, Garrett, and all who have known and loved Saint. Hinton High will remember him always, as will his teammates and the combat sports family.
Rest in Peace, Nicholas Saint Lindley. You will always be remembered. You may also be interested in: Kyle Karros and His Siblings Growing Up Together in a Baseball Family
