An associate of "Tiger King" star Joe Exotic was attacked by a tiger during a show in Oklahoma earlier this year ... and now TMZ has learned the official cause of death.

According to the Tulsa Medical Examiner, Ryan Easley died from blunt force, sharp force, and crushing injuries ... due to tiger mauling. Facebook/Circus World

As we reported ... Ryan was handling a tiger during a show at the Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, OK, on September 20. We were told a tiger suddenly grabbed Ryan around his neck and shoulder area, and sank its teeth into him before violently shaking him.

Paramedics and deputies responded to the scene, but he was pronounced dead shortly after.

Ryan had extensive experience working with animals. His father was reportedly a zookeeper and worked

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