3 inspiring MMA fighters with disabilities

Nobody ever said life would be fair.

You’ve probably heard this sentiment before; it is a saying that rings especially true as we grow older and realize that obstacles in life are inevitable. Everyone has his or her share of hardships to overcome, but most pale in comparison to those who are born with physical and cognitive disabilities. We should all take a second to appreciate the strength and dedication that the following fighters have shown throughout their lives.

Here are 3 amazingly inspiring MMA fighters with disabilities.

3) Nick Newell

A former XFC Lightweight champion, Nick Newell (13-1) has made a name for himself as an exciting, gritty MMA fighter. During his run as a pro, he garnered attention from mainstream media outlets and MMA fans alike and is perhaps the most well-known physically-challenged athlete in recent memory to step inside the cage.

Newell, a congenital amputee since birth, officially retired from MMA in October of 2015, citing a series of lingering injuries that prevented him from performing at his full potential.

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2) Garrett Holeve

Garrett Holeve (Amateur 1-1) is a truly unique human being. Born with Down syndrome, G-Money hasn’t let his genetic condition stop him from pursuing his dreams of being an MMA fighter – Holeve picked up his first amateur win in 2014, and has trained at ATT in Weston, Ohio.

1) Kyle Maynard

Kyle Maynard lives his life with no excuses. Born with congenital amputation, Maynard is a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under André Galvão, an amateur wrestler, former amateur MMA fighter and has even set records as a weight lifter. Oh yeah, he has also crawled to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro and loves to skydive. Respect.