Mathiwos Tekle has been sent to prison for the manslaughter of Nottingham Trent University student Arjun Singh Nijar.
Tekle, 21, of Ryeland Gardens, had already admitted his guilt in the death of the NTU student on January 18.
Police responded to reports of an assault on Angel Row in the city centre; however, Arjun, of Heatherton, Derby, sadly died in hospital the next day.
He died after being punched, and falling backwards and hitting his head.
NottinghamshireLive report that Tekle had offered “what appeared to be” cocaine to Arjun and his group of friends.
They add that after a disagreement, Tekle punched Mr Nijar to the ground, and then took money from his hands.
Judge Stuart Rafferty QC, told the court: “You went out that with two purposes in mind, one to pick up a girl – you did not – and one to obtain money by selling something you now say was crushed paracetamol.
“It was that criminal offence that led to the circumstances of the completely unnecessary death of Arjun.
“He was out drinking with his friends.
“At no stage I am satisfied during his dealings with you prior to you striking him had Arjun done anything aggressive to you at all.
“Far from it, he had shooed his friends away while talking to you.”
During mitigation, the court was told that Tekle, who had previous convictions of common assault and robbery, had admitted guilt “at the first instance” and was “desperately sorry”.
The Judge added: “It is not an exaggeration to say that on January 19 your life changed. Equally your life continues.
“But the family of Arjun and for Arjun himself had their life changed in a way that can never be repaired.
“I can’t pass any sentence that will give them back what they wish.”
Tekle was sentenced to seven years in prison for manslaughter and two years for offering to supply drugs. Both will run concurrently.
Students mourn loss of Arjun Singh in candlelit vigil
Hundreds of people gathered on January 22 to mourn the loss of the NTU student
Friends, family, students and members of the Sikh community came together to pay their respects.
Candles were lit and flowers were laid outside Slug and Lettuce where the incident took place.
Over the course of an hour, many prayers and speeches were said honouring Arjun Singh.
A fundraiser set up by Arjun’s family to help them give back to the people that helped him raised over £11,000.
By Matt Lee