MMA star Isaiah Abels, 21, suffers cardiac arrest in fight as octagon doctors save his life before he’s rushed to ICU
MMA fighter Isaiah Abels suffered a cardiac arrest during his fight over the weekend.
The 21-year-old took on Saevon Canto in Evansville, Indiana on Saturday night.
Shortly after landing a second round takedown, the American went into cardiac arrest.
After initial confusion doctors rushed into the cage to give Abels immediate medical attention.
An hour later he was stabilised in hospital, but reportedly remained in ICU as of Monday, as per MyMMANews.
Abels’ brother Zach posted on Facebook last Sunday: “Last night Isaiah Abels engaged in battle. It went two rounds. First round went to him with beautiful striking.
“The fight transitioned into the second round. Isaiah continued to pick his shots and maintained his pace and distance.
“Unexpectedly he was countered with a lead hook. He responded with a takedown and continued to pressure his opponent against the fence to recover from the hook.
“Isaiah then disengaged from the clinch and went to press forward. As he continued to pressure his opponent something ominous happened.
“Isaiah took a step forward and collapsed to his knees. He was going into respiratory arrest. Soon after the fight was stopped. The ref had no idea what really happened thinking it was a typical stoppage.
“Clearly it wasn’t. Isaiah wasn’t getting up because he was also going into cardiac arrest.
“Once the doctors and medics accessed the situation. They got his heart going as they assisted his breathing. We rushed to the hospital. A hour or so later Isaiah was stabilized.
“I don’t know what you believe in, but the fear of God was put into all of us last night. Words can’t even describe.
“I’m grateful for everyone praying and thinking about him, but I really wanna thank the medical professionals along with God.
“Again, I don’t know to what degree you believe in God, but please continue to keep Isaiah in your thoughts and prayers. Please, God. Please everyone. Please. I love you, Isaiah Lee.”
A statement from the Southern Indiana Combat Production, who staged the fight and subsequently cancelled the rest of the night’s scheduled bouts, read: “We thank everyone for showing your support through this whole situation.
“First, we want to wish a speedy recovery to Isaiah Abels in hopes that he can regain all strength and abilities as quick as possible. To him and his family, we will be keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
“Next, we want to thank the cage side doctors and first responders who worked briskly to provide care to Isaiah. You are greatly appreciated.
“To our fans, we thank you for attending the event last night, in person or by ppv. Please hold all ticket stubs and receipts, and stay tuned for more information.
“We want to thank all who were in attendance last night for the overwhelming support shown to our fighters and your understanding and patience in the matter.
“Please continue to keep Isaiah and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
“Thank you. SICP Family.”