In the combat sports world, the stories of fighters falling into the clutches of addiction post-retirement are sadly all too common. The tale of Mike Tyson‘s infamous descent into addiction and subsequent redemption is one that resonates with many fans. However, Tyson is not the only fighter who has grappled with such challenges. Mark Coleman, a UFC legend, recently shared his own remarkable journey on Instagram.

Resonating with many fans, it was a tale of struggle, resilience, and transformation. The photos were such that encapsulated his life’s extraordinary chapters. The first image, dating back to 1996, shows a triumphant Coleman after defeating Dan Severn to become the inaugural UFC heavyweight champion. The second picture, taken this year, portrays a completely different story.

Mark Coleman shares a Mike Tyson-like story

In his candid Instagram post, Coleman laid bare the raw realities of his life. The former champ revealed that he had not trained since 2010. Spiraling into a 12-year period of daily drug and alcohol consumption, he revealed that it nearly claimed his life multiple times. Further, he described his addiction to tobacco, and how it further contributed to his deteriorating health.

“First picture in 1996 how defeated Dan Severn to become the first UFC heavyweight champion. The second picture is this month I didn’t train one time since 2010,” he said. “I drank and did drugs daily for 12 yrs, I almost died a few times heart attack. I smoked Marlboro, red cigarettes, unfiltered, daily,” he added in his Instagram post.

However, in a testament to his unwavering determination, Coleman made a profound decision to turn his life around. Next, he embarked on an inspiring journey of discipline, reclaiming his physical and mental health. Coleman emphasized the mantra he repeats to himself daily – “Discipline Now“.

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“I started training again, January 1 of this year I have not missed one day since. ‘Discipline Now’ is a word that I tell myself multiple times a day whenever I wanna quit or cheat,” he said. “I just say it and I don’t. I’ve done plenty 8-hour training days, some 12-hour training days and a few 16-hour training days,” he added.

Mark Coleman’s secrets to fitness

Coleman’s transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary. The former champion is committed to rigorous training, often undertaking grueling sessions. Further, he attributes part of his success to therapies like hyperbaric oxygen and stem cell treatments.

“I’ve had a lot of help (from) Hiperbaric therapy of Dublin, stem cells, hyperbaric chambers, four times a week. (Also), blood cleansing vitamin bags,” he said. Along with it, he also adhered to the carnivore diet and ancestral principles.

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“The carnivore diet and living the nine Ancestral tenants is amazing. I love it.” Mark Coleman’s story serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how far one may fall, redemption is possible through determination, discipline, and the support of others.