Published 01/08/2023, 11:22 AM EST
25-year-old Zion Clark won his first MMA bout a few weeks ago. He is a former college wrestler and was born without his legs. He took on Eugene Murray at the Gladiator Challenge: Seasons Beatings event in San Diego, California. He won the match by unanimous decision with all three judges scoring the fight in favor of Zion Clark.
Clark is a celebrated All-American collegiate wrestler who competed for Kent State University. He has attracted the attention of all MMA fans and personalities around the world. Even former UFC double champion Conor McGregor took to social media and praised Zion Clark’s debut win.
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The Irishman tweeted: “Absolutely fascinating to hear about this man’s debut and now see it. Lighting entry on the low single. Wow! You should not connect to him in any shape or form. Frames only. Frame to strike. Fascinating! Congrats and so much respect to that man Zion Clark! Mma is the best sport!”
Clark appeared in an interview with TMZ sports where he expressed his happiness on receiving praises from MMA greats and stated that he is trying to be humble about it. He believes that there is still a lot of work for Clark and his coaches to do.
Fans react to Zion Clark claiming that he is “not 1 and done”
After making history in MMA, Zion Clark took to Instagram to express his excitement about winning the first of many matches in his MMA career. He wrote: “Learn how to smile and grin when there’s an impossible challenge in front of you. Close your heart to fear and turn it into excitement… 1-0 not 1 and done remember that and my name.. pain is temporary but the memory lives on forever.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zion Clark (@bigz97)
Many fans have reacted to Clark’s amazing achievement and left very positive comments on his Instagram post:
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Much respect from T-County brotha!
Strong in muscle, stronger in perseverance.
Definition of ” Motivation “
Damn yo my man is killing it I love it
Holy sh*t good job brother
Much Love & RESPECTS my guy!
Indeed good show man
Fans were not the only ones to react, many prominent MMA fighters also reacted to his post. UFC star Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson also took his time and commented, “you’re one of us now.. we have to stop jumping you at the gym now.. you’re gonna go on to be champ now.”
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Zion Clark was born with a birth disorder that shuts down lower body growth, known as caudal regression syndrome. But that hasn’t stopped him from performing in combat sports. His achievement is truly a historic moment for the sport of mixed martial arts. He has become a flag bearer of motivation for people around the world.
WATCH THIS STORY: “I Gave Up on Calling Him” – Unable to Even Pay His Fees, Conor McGregor Scammed His Coach Off $500 in His Rookie Days
“You Are One of Us Now”: Zion Clark, Wrestler Born With No Legs, Amazes the MMA World Including Former UFC Champion Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson
