MMA fighter Jake Sendler tragically died at the young age of 21 from a muscle condition he was unaware of.
Sendler was urgently taken to the hospital and put into a medically induced coma following a fight in Melbourne on March 3.
Despite undergoing several surgeries and blood transfusions, doctors were unable to save him.
It was discovered that Sendler had been suffering from rhabdomyolysis before his death. This condition leads to muscle breakdown due to excessive physical strain, underlying health issues, or trauma.
The breakdown of muscle fibers and release of toxins into the bloodstream can lead to kidney failure.
Reportedly, Sendler had to lose a dangerous amount of weight before the fight.
A person involved in the fight industry mentioned to the Herald Sun: “He told people he trained with on the Friday before the fight, about 48 hours before entering the ring, that he still needed to lose five to six kilos.
“Considering his usual weight is around 75kg, this means he was trying to lose almost seven percent of his total body weight in just two days.”
Sendler’s mother, Sharone, described her son as a “warrior” after his tragic passing.
She stated: “Jake was truly a warrior, a wonderful man. He would never want this to happen to anyone.
“Our message is to pay attention to your bodies, but continue to be great and pursue your dreams.”
Sharone added that Sendler experienced muscle pain and dark urine leading up to his last fight, both of which are symptoms of rhabdomyolysis.
She continued: “Jake attributed these symptoms to his intense training because he always worked so hard.
“He entered the ring and gave his all, even though he was already suffering.
“We now know that his body was already failing, and his kidneys were functioning at only 40 percent. Yet, he fought for three rounds.”
A GoFundMe page has been created in Sendler’s memory to support his family with funeral expenses and to raise awareness about rhabdomyolysis.
A message from his loved ones on the page reads: “It is with deep sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of Jake’s passing. Jake was not only a fighter in the MMA arena but also a true warrior in life.
“He was a devoted athlete, a caring coach, a cherished son, brother, and friend. Jake’s generous spirit, limitless energy, and unwavering support profoundly impacted everyone who knew him.
“Whether he was training with teammates, enjoying the outdoors, fishing, or spending time at the beach, Jake’s infectious positivity lifted everyone around him. He selflessly dedicated himself to others, embodying both strength and kindness.”
“Unbeknownst to Jake, he was battling a silent but serious threat: rhabdomyolysis (“rhabdo”), a life-threatening condition caused by extreme muscle breakdown, which floods the body with dangerous toxins.”
“While preparing for an upcoming fight, Jake unknowingly pushed through worsening symptoms. He continued to train, work, and coach, unaware that his body was shutting down.”
“Incredibly, even as his organs were failing, Jake stepped into the ring for the last time and fought valiantly, displaying incredible determination and strength.”
“Immediately after, his condition rapidly deteriorated, resulting in emergency hospitalization and multi-organ failure—the most severe case of rhabdo his doctors had ever seen.”
“Despite extraordinary medical interventions, including multiple surgeries and blood transfusions, Jake passed away after days of fighting with unmatched courage.
“Although his physical body gave way, his resilient spirit remains forever unbroken.”
