Bellator MMA, Chael Sonnen, and the family of Cris Lencioni have confirmed that the popular featherweight remains in intensive care in critical condition, following a medical emergency earlier this month.
On Sunday, Sonnen, a training partner of Lencioni, confirmed via his Youtube channel that the fighter was in hospital following a training session during which he lost consciousness. “The folks at the gym, and thank heavens for them, they just sprung into action, called 9-1-1. An ambulance comes, and Cris had not regained consciousness,” Sonnen revealed.
Early reports had stated that Lencioni was in a coma, though Sonnen’s video states that Lencioni is not in a coma, but in another unconscious state, per his doctors.
A Bellator MMA official provided a brief statement to Cageside Press on Monday, stating that “We are aware of Cris Lencioni’s current medical condition and are monitoring the situation closely. We ask you to join us in sending thoughts and prayers to Cris and his family as he navigates his recovery process.”
A GoFundMe has been set up to support the fighter, with his wife posting a detailed statement on Lencioni’s social media accounts on Monday.
This is Cris’ wife, Marca. On Thursday 6/8 there was an incident while Cris was training, and he experienced a cardiac arrest. The athletes at the gym were great and immediately called 911 and did their best to address his needs until paramedics arrived.
We are currently in another state. He has been under the care of excellent doctors with I and much of his family by his side. We are all hopeful for the progress we know he will continue to make.
Prayers are always welcome – if your kiddos want to make a card or anything like that, bring it to the gym and we will make sure Cris gets it. We are currently in uncharted territory and taking everything day by day. Thank you for the continued support during this time.
Some of Cris’ family has started a Go fund me page. I’ll add the link in his Bio but keeping us in your thoughts and prayers is very much appreciated.
Lencioni (11-3) had been scheduled to take part in a high-profile match-up with Ireland’s James Gallagher in August. He last fought in April, winning his fourth straight fight, against Blake Smith.
