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Months After Suffering From a Cardiac Arrest Which Caused Him Brain Damage, Bellator Fighter Cris Lencioni Miraculously Walks Out of the Hospital

Published 08/06/2023, 1:49 AM EDT

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Cris Lencioni, popularly known as ‘Sunshine’, has made a triumphant stride toward recovery in a riveting sequence of events. This marks an inspiring chapter in MMA history. The fighter recently managed to walk out of the hospital on his own; a significant milestone achieved months after battling a life-threatening cardiac arrest.

The incident had occurred during one of Lencioni’s routine training sessions. The cardiac arrest also resulted in brain damage, pulling the committed athlete into a critical health battle and pushing his fighter spirit to the test.

In the world of combat sports, almost every battle is a hurdle. However, on June 8th, Lencioni found himself cornered by an adversary far more ruthless; a sudden cardiac arrest. While preparing for a fight at a gym in Spokane, Lencioni’s regular training session spiraled into an emergency situation.

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The cardiac arrest brought the fighter’s world to a screeching halt. The severity of the occurrence was further augmented by consequential brain damage, as revealed by his wife to MMA Fighting. This revelation added another layer of complexity to the situation.

UFC fighter Terrance McKinney breaks the good news

News of Lencioni’s inspiring recovery and courageous struggle resonated within the MMA community. A gleaming reflection of the same was a heartfelt message from fellow UFC fighter, Terrance McKinney. He took to Twitter to share the victorious update. McKinney stated, “2 months ago Cris Lencioni went into cardiac arrest and since then he relearned to do everything. Today he walked out of the hospital on his own. The comeback kid”.

Although he was discharged from the Intensive Care Unit in late June, ‘Sunshine’ wasn’t immediately out of the woods. Despite having overcome the initial phase of survival, his journey was far from over. The brain damage cast a long shadow of uncertainty over his recovery path.

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Lencioni’s courageous pathway to regaining his health stands as an inspiring testament to his indomitable spirit. Now, with news of his well-being, the triumphant exit from the hospital entails more than just physical recovery.

World of combat sports rallies behind Lencioni

The combat sports fraternity follows numerous champions battling opponents across various tournaments. Still, Lencioni’s extraordinary journey of recovery from a sudden cardiac arrest and brain damage holds a special, inspirational place in recent times.

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Today, as ‘Sunshine’ makes steady strides on his health recovery journey, the community stands united in sending strength and support his way, applauding his determination and resilience. The support began back when the incident happened, with fans contributing to the fighter’s GoFundMe campaign and extra support lent by the ABC President.

Read More: “It’s Heartbreaking to See You Like This…”- Bellator MMA Fighter’s Update After Cardiac Arrest Sees UFC World Pouring Their “Speedy Recovery” Wishes

Indeed, his story has redefined the concept of a ‘comeback’. His recovery milestones serve as a testament to the athlete’s fighting spirit and an embodiment of hope and steadfast determination. Even as the MMA community celebrates his triumphant hospital exit, they continue to rally behind Lencioni as he strives for a complete recovery.

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Undoubtedly, his journey will continue to inspire many others in combat sports and beyond, illuminating the path ahead with his tale of courage and resilience.

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Written by:

Rajdeep Jayan

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Rajdeep Jayan is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. Rajdeep was inculcated into the world of combat sports through his love for Sylvester Stallone's iconic character, the 'Italian Stallion,' Rocky Balboa. His early obsession with the genre was recently rekindled by the debates he would engage in with his roommate during his college days.
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Edited by:

Kratika Vajpayee