In a harrowing turn of events, UFC Hall of Famer Mark Coleman is currently fighting for his life after a heroic effort to rescue his parents from a destructive fire at their home in Fremont, Ohio.
The 59-year-old former champion, known as "The Hammer," was airlifted to the hospital after inhaling a significant amount of smoke during the rescue mission, leaving the MMA community in shock.
Coleman's daughter, Morgan, shared the distressing news on her Instagram account, providing updates on her father's critical condition. The fire erupted during the early hours of the morning, prompting Coleman to swiftly come to the aid of his parents and their beloved dog, Hammer. While he managed to rescue his parents, tragically, the family pet did not survive the ordeal.
Sending prayers to The Godfather of Ground & Pound, the 1st UFC Heavyweight Champion in history, Mark Coleman🙏🏽
— DJ MurkCity (@myrksitymma) March 12, 2024
He was in a severe house fire last night where he saved his parents and had to be airlifted to a hospital due to smoke inhalation🙏🏽
HammerHouse4Life pic.twitter.com/7JAyvlc5wP
Morgan's heartfelt Instagram post included a photo of herself, her father, and her sister Mackenzie. "As many know, our dad was involved in a house fire early this morning along with his parents and beloved dog, Hammer," she recounted. Despite his valiant efforts, Coleman inhaled too much smoke and had to be life-flighted to the hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Describing her father as her hero and a lifelong fighter, Morgan requested continued prayers for him and their family during this challenging time. "The strongest and bravest man I know. Please continue to pray for him, and our family during this extremely difficult time. We will miss our sweet Hammer so deeply," she emphasized.
The MMA community, including former fighters and presenters, rallied behind Coleman, offering their thoughts and prayers. Derek Brunson expressed, "Prayers for MMA legend Mark Coleman," while Ariel Helwani called for support, describing Coleman as a pioneer, inspiration, founding father, and a "sweetheart of a man."
Wes Sims, Coleman's former colleague and friend, shared updates on the fighter's condition, revealing that he was intubated and sedated. Sims acknowledged Coleman's resilience, stating, "I swear to GOD-he's one of the toughest individuals ever created, been through so much a Movie at this point could not give his life work Justice! Please Pray and Share! Life is Precious!"
As the MMA community unites in support, the thoughts and prayers of fans and colleagues alike are with Mark Coleman as he bravely battles for his life.