UFC legend Mark Coleman critical after saving parents from burning building

A former UFC champion is fighting for his life in hospital after he ran into a burning building to help his parents escape the inferno.

Mark Coleman in critical condition

UFC legend Mark Coleman is fighting for his life after helping his parents escape a devastating fire.

The hall-of-famer was airlifted to hospital after suffering devastating injuries during the heroic act, The Sun reports.

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Coleman, 59, was awoken during the night by a fire at his parents’ house, and immediately moved to get his mum, dad and dog out of the family home.

The former heavyweight managed to save his parents from harm’s way but sustained heavy smoke inhalation during the process.

It appears that he was unable to save his dog, named Hammer after his UFC moniker.

After the heroic act, Coleman was rushed to hospital near his home in Fremont, Ohio.

His daughter, Morgan Coleman, took to Instagram to confirm the news that her father was in a critical condition.

His daughter confirmed the heartbreaking news.

Alongside a picture of her with her father and sister, she wrote: “As many know, our dad was involved in a house fire early this morning along with his parents and beloved dog, Hammer.

“He managed to carry both of his parents out of the house but despite his best efforts was not able to save Hammer. He was life-flighted to the hospital where he is currently battling for his life after this heroic act.

“Our father has always been our hero and means the world to us. He is and always will be a fighter. The strongest and bravest man I know. Please continue to pray for him and our family during this extremely difficult time. We will miss our sweet Hammer so deeply.

“Thank you for all the love and support. Hammer house for life.”

Mark Coleman in critical condition

The fire ravaged the Coleman residence

A legend of UFC, Coleman was the organisation’s first ever heavyweight champion.

He played an integral role in the growth of MMA, winning the UFC 10 and 11 championships.

He is credited with paving the way for wrestling stars to dominate in UFC and is known as “The Godfather of ground and pound”.

In 2008, he was inducted into the UFC hall of fame as just it’s fifth inductee.

Well-wishes have begun to flood in from the UFC world after the shock news.

Former UFC fighter Derek Brunson wrote: “Prayers for MMA legend Mark Coleman.”

Presenter Ariel Helwani also wrote: “Please pray for Mark Coleman, if you can.

“A pioneer, inspiration, founding father and just a sweetheart of a man. You got this, @Markcolemanmma.”

This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission.