Willie Spence wowed the country during his stint on American Idol season 19 in 2021. He was the runner-up who started his journey with a chilling rendition of Rhianna’s Diamonds. He had great things on the horizon and the judges loved his angelic voice.
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Tragically, Willie died from injuries sustained in a car accident in October 2022 at the age of 23. Willie’s memory lives on through his music after his untimely death. A haunting viral clip of Willie performing Diamonds in 2017 recently resurfaced on several social media pages, ushering in a new generation of fans.
UFC star Dustin Poirier chose Willie’s cover of Diamonds as his walkout song for the UFC 302 main event in May as a tribute to the late singer. Fans call Dustin “The Diamond” in the UFC circle, and with rumors that the May event may have been his last, Diamonds was a fitting choice.
Fans Flocked To Willie Spence’s YouTube
After announcing he’d be using Willie’s version of Diamonds, fans of the fighter and singer shared the news in the comment section of the 2017 YouTube clip.
“RIP, hopefully Dustin can win this one so this guy’s voice is remembered for the years and years to come!!”
Another person wrote, “Everyone here ’cause Dustin but the OGs only knew about Willie. Rest in paradise king. Thank you for amazing covers, songs, and content.”
Willie’s fans loved his voice. “This is the first song I heard Willie sing and I fell in love [with] his voice. Voice of a true angel now RIP Willie.”
This person agreed, “Can you imagine the joy he is bringing to everyone up there? Wish I had 1% of his talent.”
Dustin ultimately lost the match by submission to Islam Makhachev. He brought many to Willie’s page, and they thanked him for the introduction.
“People came for Dustin and stayed for the music.”
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here.
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