5 times UFC fighters stressed the importance of mental health
UFC fighters are not only world-class athletes, but some of the toughest human beings on the planet. They train for months, sharpening their skills and priming their bodies for unarmed combat against equally skilled opponents.
However, it is not only their bodies, but their minds that they put on the line.
Just as UFC fighters expose themselves to physical harm in the form of knockouts, joint locks, cuts and freak injuries, they also withstand the immense mental pressure of performing under a global spotlight. Fighters must routinely compete in front of their hometown crowds and families while curbing the fear of suffering a humiliating loss when the pressure to win is heavy on their shoulders.
Fighting is equal parts a mental and physical challenge. At last weekend's Fight Night 208 event, Paddy Pimblett used his post-fight interview as a platform to urge men to be more open about their mental health struggles in light of his friend's recent suicide.
Thus, this list looks at 5 fighters, including Pimblett himself, who champion mental health.
#5. Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker
Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker is one of the greatest fighters in the world. His inimitable blend of boxing and Gōjū-ryū karate has led to many entertaining performances that endeared his unique striking style to fight fans everywhere.
Despite being one of the most successful middleweights in recent memory, 'The Reaper' is not without his struggles.
Whittaker's past has been crowded with injuries and medical setbacks that have forced him to withdraw and/or delay a number of fights.
Most notably, the Australian great was scheduled to face Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 234. However, after suffering from an abdominal hernia, Whittaker was forced to withdraw from the bout, leaving the main event slot open to co-main eventers Israel Adesanya and Anderson Silva.
Due to his forced withdrawal from the bout, Whittaker spiraled into depression. However, the former champion persevered, crediting his family with helping him emerge from what he described as a pit of despair.
On Submission Radio, 'The Reaper' warned that depression can impact anyone, and that one's support system needs to be up to par to prevent people from drowning in despair.