Mike DiSabato, a close confidant of UFC Hall of Famer Mark Coleman, has shared an update on Coleman’s condition following a harrowing incident.
Reports emerged on Tuesday that Coleman had been airlifted to a hospital after bravely rescuing his parents from a devastating house fire. According to local news outlet WTOL, Coleman heroically ushered his parents to safety but courageously re-entered the burning home in an attempt to save their beloved family dog, tragically losing the pet in the process.
The fire, believed to have originated in the kitchen, resulted in substantial damage to the property, though the exact cause remains undetermined.
In the wake of Coleman’s hospitalization, his longtime friend Mike DiSabato communicated with esteemed MMA journalist Josh Gross to provide insight into Coleman’s condition.
“Medical professionals have diligently worked to clear as much soot as possible from his lungs, with plans to repeat the procedure today,” DiSabato revealed. “Following the initial treatment, Coleman displayed signs of consciousness, evidenced by his ability to squeeze his daughter Morgan’s hand. However, he remains under sedation and assisted ventilation. Mark’s journey to recovery remains uncertain.”
While the news of Coleman’s responsiveness offers a glimmer of hope, DiSabato emphasizes that his friend’s recovery is far from guaranteed—a sentiment echoed by another close acquaintance, former UFC fighter Wes Sims, who shared his thoughts on social media.
“As someone who knows Mark intimately, I firmly believe in the power of collective prayer,” Sims expressed on Facebook.
“Witnessing Mark’s resilience firsthand, I can imagine him saying, ‘Capture this, Wes, we’re about to make headlines!’ Mark’s recent ordeal, saving his parents and attempting to rescue his dog Hammer amidst the flames, demonstrates his unwavering strength. Transported to Toledo for urgent care, Mark remains intubated and sedated. His indomitable spirit has weathered countless storms, and this latest challenge is a testament to his unparalleled fortitude.”
Mark Coleman boasts a storied career in mixed martial arts, amassing a record of 16-10 before retiring in 2010 following a submission loss to Randy Couture. Notable for his tenure as the inaugural UFC heavyweight champion, Coleman’s legacy includes victories over renowned fighters such as Don Frye, Dan Severn, and Stephan Bonnar.
As Coleman continues to battle adversity, the MMA community rallies around him, united in their support and hope for his swift recovery.
