UFC legend Mark Coleman’s heroic actions took center stage off the Octagon when he rushed to save his parents from a devastating house fire in Toledo, Ohio. Reports from ESPN’s Brett Okamoto detailed Coleman’s harrowing ordeal, which left him hospitalized after suffering from smoke inhalation during the rescue mission.
Coleman’s daughter, Morgan, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, revealing that her father is currently “battling for his life” following the incident. Despite managing to rescue his parents from the blaze, Coleman’s beloved dog, Hammer, tragically perished in the fire.
“As many know, our dad was involved in a house fire early this morning along with his parents and his beloved dog, Hammer,” Morgan wrote. “He managed to carry both of his parents out of the house but despite his best efforts was not able to save Hammer. He was life-flighted to the hospital where is currently battling for his life after this heroic act.”
(Image Credit: DailyMail)
The GoFundme set up by his daughters, reads as follows: (Please consider donating if you are in a position to do so)
“To know Mark Coleman, you know he has the biggest heart, he is fierce, afraid of nothing mentality, loves the lord, and would do anything for his Family.
Tragedy struck in the early morning hours of Tuesday March 12th where Mark was awoken at 4 am by his beloved Rotti “lil hammer” to a house fire in his childhood home, where he was visiting his parents. Mark, being the hero he is, and the fierce love he has for his family managed to get his elderly parents out of the home unharmed. He went back in risking his life to save his dog.
It is with great sadness that our beloved “hammy” “ham” ” lil hammer” did not survive the fire, and the home is a total loss.
Lil hammer is a true Hero, and will be truly missed.
Mark was life flighted to a hospital where he is needing lots of prayer to get his lungs clear. His adult daughters, McKenzie and Morgan have not, and will not leave their Dads side as he battles for his life. We all knew he was one of the best athletes, now we know he is a true Hero.
All funds donated will go directly to Marks living expenses as well as support to his adult daughters who will be off work and by his side aiding in his recovery as well as assisting in any necessities the Coleman family needs.
We are a faithful family and know God works miracles. Please keep praying with us that our hero has complete healing.
With love,
Kenzie and Morgan Coleman
Hammer House 4 life ⚒️❤️”
Wes Sims, a fellow UFC veteran and close friend of Coleman, provided further insight to TMZ Sports, revealing that the 59-year-old fighter had been intubated and sedated at the hospital as he continues to fight for his life.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, leaving many to speculate about the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Coleman’s legacy in the UFC is indelible, having emerged as one of the promotion’s earliest stars. Throughout his illustrious career, he faced off against formidable opponents such as Stephan Bonnar, Don Frye, and Dan Severn. Notably, Coleman clinched the title of the UFC’s first-ever heavyweight champion in 1997, solidifying his status as a pioneer in the sport. With a record of 16 wins and 10 losses, Coleman’s contributions to the UFC earned him a rightful place in the organization’s Hall of Fame in 2008.
Before his remarkable UFC career, Coleman made waves as a standout wrestler, claiming an NCAA Division I title with Ohio State University in 1988. His prowess on the wrestling mat also led him to represent the United States at the 1992 Olympics, further cementing his status as a sports icon.
As the MMA community rallies around Mark Coleman and his family during this challenging time, the outpouring of support serves as a testament to the enduring impact of his legacy both inside and outside the Octagon.
