Photo Credit: AP
UFC star Conor McGregor has donated £25,000 (around $31,800) to his fellow countryman Ryan Curtis after the fighter suffered serious spinal injuries in training that ended his career.
Following the accident, crowdfunding has been organized for Curtis, who was scheduled to fight Italian Davide Scarano on February 24.
That fight has since been cancelled and the Irishman, who had been professional since 2015 fighting for the Cage Warriors and Bellator Bills, ends his career with a record of six wins and four losses.
McGregor posted on social media offering his "support and best wishes" to the Dublin fighter, whose family are trying to raise £150,000 to fund his treatment.
Boxer Michael Conlan, fighters Molly McCann and Dillon Danis and trainer John Kavanagh also donated to Curtis and his family.
Fighter Leah McCourt posted on social media with a message detailing the full extent of Curtis' injuries.
"Ryan will never again be able to do what he loves, fight or train in MMA. A sport he has dedicated his life to since he was 11 years old," she said.
"Ryan has the most infectious positive outlook in life and has been through some of the most horrific circumstances, always coming out a better human, man and friend.
"He is still showing his positive outlook, his determination and mindset to overcome yet another challenge that life has presented."
Curtis' partner sends message of hope
Curtis' partner, Emma, posted on social media that she was "overwhelmed by the tremendous kindness" after the kind gestures from Curtis' fellow fighters.
"The love and support for Ryan are truly a testament to his remarkable character," she said.
"Ryan remains optimistic, I have never known anyone with a stronger mindset than him. I truly believe that Ryan will hug me and our beautiful daughter Kassia again. Please keep Ryan in your prayers."
