“I Am So Terrified of Cancer”: MMA Community Shattered as Former UFC Fighter Announces Devastating News
Follow Us
Fighters don’t do battle just inside the cage. They overcome monumental odds and conquer adversities outside to make it to the cage and chase their dreams. Therefore, seasoned fighters are not easily dissuaded by the hurdles life throws at them. Such is the case of former UFC star Poliana Botelho. The former UFC flyweight recently shared some distressing news on social media, but her attitude spoke volumes.
The 34-year-old had a rocky five-year stint in the UFC. After her UFC exit, she signed with Bellator in October 2022. However, before she could get in the cage for her new promotion, she had to lace up the gloves for perhaps the most important battle in her life.
Poliana Botelho hopeful despite worrying health update
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Poliana Botelho recently announced to the world that she is battling cancer. The 34-year-old shared a snap of her in a hospital bed with the message, “one more battle for my life… But this victory will be mine.”
Ex-UFC fighter Poliana Botelho has announced she has cancer pic.twitter.com/rCvc4wxU1a
— MMA mania (@mmamania) February 10, 2023
In the image, we can see a confidently smiling Botelho. She had her hands raised in a fighting stance to signify her battle against the disease. Despite the devastating news, the former XFC champion looked to be in good spirits heading into the batter for her life.
Trending
Desperate to Escape Dubai, Floyd Mayweather Jr. Gets Unexpected Offer for Help After Gervonta Davis’ Claims on Hostage Situation
April 30, 2024 07:23 PM EDT
How Did Francis Ngannou’s Son Die? All We Know So Far About 15-Month-Old Kobe’s Death
April 30, 2024 12:32 PM EDT
“This Is the Last Chapter” – Dustin Poirier on Retirement Rumors Before Islam Makhachev Fight at UFC 302
May 01, 2024 04:14 PM EDT
Threatened for Half Of His Wealth by Ex-Girlfriend, Israel Adesanya Refuses to Hold Back in “Future Wife” Confession
April 24, 2024 03:00 PM EDT
Michel Pereira’s Wife and Kids: Controversy Surrounding Gina Amir and UFC Star Jorge Masvidal
May 01, 2024 09:13 AM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest UFC stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
“It’s Disgusting”: Dana White Dares to Ignite an Aussie Outrage Before UFC 284
Under the post announcing the news, fans flocked to show their support for the MMA star. Many of them sent her prayers and well wishes.
Fans come in support of Botelho in her battle against cancer
Several fans declared their unconditional support for the fighter. They also expressed hope that Botelho comes out as the winner in her battle against cancer.
I wish her the best hope she overcomes this disgusting disease 🙏
— Christopher Torres (@Christo69431824) February 10, 2023
However, one fan highlighted another fundamental issue in light of the recent news. They sarcastically pointed out how the UFC’s healthcare system does not help its current or former athletes.
good thing the ufc offers health care to its fighters and ex-fighters
— AsmAnon2 (@AsmAnon2) February 10, 2023
More fans came in support of the fighter with messages encouraging her to survive the disease.
She will kick its ass
— Helikoan (@caillumdeavey) February 10, 2023
You're a fighter you can get out of this!
— Miguel (@jawbreakermma) February 11, 2023
Her most important fight, I'm sure she will win 🙏🙏🙏
— Chibueze Nnodim (@Chibuezednnodim) February 11, 2023
Blessings to her! Hope she beats the battle!! 🤞🙏🏽
— Portga$ G (@Portgas_G_Dreko) February 10, 2023
Another fan shared his fear of the disease.
Damn, I am so terrified of cancer. Doesn’t matter how healthy you are it just a roll of the dice. Fuck that shit
— Thomson (@Thomson0070) February 10, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Botelho made her UFC debut in 2017. Between 2017 and 2022, she fought seven times under the banner and accumulated a 3-4 record. Her notable opponents include Pearl Gonzalez, Cynthia Calvillo, and Gillian Robertson.
Before signing for Bellator in October, she fought Helen Peralta under Invicta FC and secured a unanimous decision win. As of now, her pro record stands at 9-5.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story– Dana White slammed for 1993 pay in 2023
There are no details available about the type of cancer Botelho has. Hopefully, the Brazilian veteran has a healthy recovery and will return to active competition soon.
Edited by:
Rohini Kottu