In the face of adversity, 28-year-old MMA fighter Cris Lencioni is demonstrating a resolute will to recover after suffering a cardiac arrest in June.

Despite the serious nature of his condition, Lencioni’s recent progress paints a hopeful picture.

According to a report by MMAFighting.com, the former Bellator featherweight prospect was able to take his first assisted steps and displayed signs of improved cognitive function, suggesting a promising path forward.

A video shared online showcased the power of Lencioni’s determination, as it featured him walking with support on Sunday.

Lencioni’s wife, Marca, described the inspiring scene to MMAFighting, saying that he’d been responding positively to humor and making attempts to communicate verbally.

“He’s making progress really fast,” Marca Lencioni stated, attributing his improvement to “sheer will and determination.”

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On June 8, while in the midst of training for Bellator 298, Lencioni experienced a sudden cardiac arrest.

His fellow athletes at the gym acted quickly, calling 911 and providing immediate assistance until paramedics could take over, as detailed in a post by Marca Lencioni on Instagram on June 19.

With their loved one in the care of expert medical professionals and surrounded by family, Marca stated, “We are all hopeful for the progress we know he will continue to make.”

Yet, there had been serious concerns for Lencioni’s future. Doctors discovered brain damage resulting from oxygen deprivation, leading to speculation about the quality of life he might have post-recovery.

However, his recent positive progress has reassured physicians and they’ve reconsidered their initial recommendation to transfer him to a long-term acute care hospital in Idaho.

As part of Lencioni’s treatment plan, doctors intend to insert an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator to prevent further heart complications, ensuring his strength and determination are supported by medical intervention.

Cris Lencioni, who stepped into the Bellator ring for the first time at Bellator 289 in December, boasts a commendable record of 11-3 and was enjoying a four-fight winning streak.

His recent health scare stands as a test of his resilience, and the early signs of recovery are undoubtedly an inspiration to the MMA community and beyond.

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