Joe Pyfer entered the UFC Seattle main event against former two-time middleweight titleholder Israel Adesanya ranked No. 14 in the division and looking to pick up the biggest win of his career. “Bodybagz” finished the No. 4 ranked former champion in the second round but dealt with some dark demons leading up to the fight.
During his Octagon Interview immediately following the win, Pyfer revealed that he considered killing himself just weeks prior.
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“It’s like I could see this moment happening. I almost took my own life a couple of weeks ago,” an emotional Pyfer said. “I found God, and I hate crying man. So, I’m going to keep it together. God restored me baby. That’s the only reason I’m here … All glory to God for this victory, or else I’d be dead in a ditch somewhere.”
During the post-fight press conference, Pyfer opened up more about his personal struggles with mental health.
“I was born into chaos and a messed up family as many children are. It’s not like mine’s super special compared to anybody else’s. But I was a victim of my own self destruction,” he said.
“I had lust issues. I had just this toxic cycle of coping. Nothing drug related or anything like that, but I had a dream where I was disgusted about who I was. I broke a lot of people’s hearts around me and particularly one person that I will never hurt again. Sh*t man, I (was) just disgusted with myself. I went and got therapy.”
