Victor Valimaki, who has 29 professional MMA fights under his belt, is currently battling a rare central nervous disorder known as neuromyelitis optica or Devic’s Disease. The disorder has left Valimaki bedridden and struggling to speak. It was only in September last year that the 36-year-old was competing in the cage.
“You can be the healthiest person in the world and this can happen to you,” said Valimaki to CBC News’ Wallis Snowdon. Valimaki was diagnosed with the disorder, which closely mimics multiple sclerosis, just four months ago.
Neuromyelitis optica inflames the optic nerve, spinal cord, and brain.