UFC Legend Mark Coleman Opens up About ‘Toughest Fight of Life’: “Put the Bottle down”

UFC veteran and former heavyweight champion Mark Coleman talks about using his newfound fame to spread awareness.

UFC Legend Mark Coleman Opens up About ‘Toughest Fight of Life’: “Put the Bottle down”

UFC veteran Mark Coleman talks about stopping alcohol consumption (via X)

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Mark Coleman is one of the most respected veterans, earning legendary status through iconic performances and unmatched resilience. The former NCAA champion and Olympic wrestler transitioned to MMA, dominating early UFC tournaments and pioneering the ground-and-pound technique. In 1997, Coleman became the UFC’s first-ever heavyweight champion, etching his name into the foundations of the sport.

Now at 60 years old, Coleman is a proud UFC Hall of Famer, using his platform to inspire and support mental health awareness campaigns. He remains close friends with legendary fighter Mark Kerr and is expected to appear in the upcoming biopic based on Kerr’s life. In a recent MMA Fighting interview, Coleman discussed his resurgence in popularity and commitment to positively impacting others’ lives.

I always wanted to be famous. Not gonna lie but for all the wrong reasons but now I appreciate the fame because It gives me a platform to help people to getting sober. God, took away my obsession to drink and he guides me now. It’s the toughest fight of my life…You gotta get in there, you gotta get help and you gotta do it now. So, put the bottle down, get some exercise in. 

Mark Coleman via MMA Fighting 

Coleman’s descent into alcohol and drug addiction began after a career-ending hip injury in 2010. He isolated himself in a rundown Columbus hotel, surrounded by beer cans and painkillers, and refused all help.

His life spiraled until his longtime friend Wes Sims intervened in 2022, getting him into undergo the rehabilitation process. Coleman later admitted in interviews that staying away from drugs and alcohol was difficult, but he replaced those habits.

He moved in with ex-UFC fighter Matt Brown during early recovery, rebuilding family ties while slowly adopting a disciplined and healthier daily routine. Coleman has remained sober for over three years now, crediting strong relationships, structure, and support. He shares his inspiring story online and in interviews, raising awareness about addiction, mental health, and long-term recovery challenges.

In March 2024, the legend fearlessly ran into his burning childhood home in Ohio, rescuing both elderly parents despite intense smoke. The entire MMA world, fans, and UFC legends praised his unmatched bravery, calling him a real-life hero and inspiration. His courageous act added a powerful new chapter to his legacy, showing heart, loyalty, and devotion beyond his fighting career.

The upcoming movie on Mark Coleman’s longtime friend, Mark Kerr

A24’s The Smashing Machine stars Dwayne Johnson as Mark Kerr, showcasing a darker and emotional side of the MMA fighter’s personal battles. Johnson’s transformation shocked fans, using intense makeup and weight changes to fully embody Kerr’s pain, addiction, and championship rise.

Public reaction has remained overwhelmingly positive, with excitement building for Johnson’s bold shift from blockbuster hero to tortured fighter. Even though the film is about Mark Kerr, his best friend Mark Coleman also plays an important role. Ex-UFC fighter Ryan Bader portrays Coleman in the film.

Mark Coleman with Dwayne Johnson on the sets of the upcoming movie
Mark Coleman with Dwayne Johnson on the sets of the upcoming movie (via Instagram)

The WWE legend underwent serious training in MMA to understand the intensity that fighters like Kerr fought through. Set for release on October 3, 2025, the film is expected to dominate awards season and spark widespread critical acclaim. In a recent interview, the WWE star talked about the acting process and other challenges in making this movie. 

I had been wanting for years now to chase the challenge and be inspired by the challenge. I love making the bigger blockbuster movies. They’re a lot of fun. They’re hard…But I wanted more. I wanted a challenge, and I just wanted the opportunity to disappear into something and disappear into a part and a role that would really challenge me in ways that I’ve never been challenged before.

Dwayne Johnson via The Pat McAfee Show 

Johnson has starred in blockbusters like Fast and Furious films, but fans often criticized his roles for lacking emotional variety. Audiences felt he played similar characters repeatedly, tough, comedic heroes with little depth, leaving room for artistic growth.

Now with The Smashing Machine, fans believe ‘The Rock’ is taking a risk to prove his acting range and emotional intensity. Moreover, it’s the most recent Hollywood film revolving around real-life personalities, which has created much curiosity among the combat sports fan base.

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