Frank Shamrock will allow scientists to study his brain in the name of CTE research.
Former UFC and Strikeforce alum, Frank Shamrock is hoping to make a change in the field of mental and brain health. Anyone who is a fan of combat sports knows the risk of brain trauma is high. Fighters in boxing and MMA are becoming more careful about keeping themselves and their brains healthy while still maintaining a high level of the sport. Back in the early days of MMA, fighters did not have the information they have now and many are now realizing that they may have lingering issues from their competitive days.
Fighters like Frank Shamrock, who began his professional MMA career back in 1994 are now looking to make a difference for the fighters that come after them. Shamrock is going the extra mile and has announced his intentions to donate his brain to the Concussion Legacy Foundation.
I am donating my brain to @ConcussionLF after I'm gone. Hoping to contribute to the important research on brain injuries and help improve the lives of athletes and others who have suffered from concussions. -> https://t.co/VhCfsuq8w3 #braindonation #concussionawareness
— Frank “The Legend” Shamrock (@frankshamrock) April 20, 2023
Frank Shamrock will donate his brain to concussion research to fuel change
Frank Shamrock is known by many as a pioneer of the sport of MMA. He came to the UFC back in 1997 and only remain in the organization for a few years. Over the course of his 15-year journey in MMA, he fought some of the best there are, including Nick Diaz, Renzo Gracie, Tito Ortiz, and more. Shamrock is involved as an advocate for CTE research and brain health and now he is taking it a step further by donating his brain after he passes.
“As an athlete and a lifelong advocate for brain health, I am excited to announce that I will be donating my brain to the Concussion Legacy Foundation (CLF),” he wrote on social media. “I have personally experienced the impact of concussions, and I know how important it is to take proactive steps to protect the brain. By donating my brain to the CLF, I hope to contribute to their research and help advance our understanding of brain health.”
CTE and other concussion-related diseases are a problem for many athletes. All major sports organizations including the UFC are now putting plans in place to protect their athletes. Sean O’Malley discussed how the UFC sent him a protocol to promote brain health. The UFC has also teamed up with research hospitals to fund similar research.
