Months ago, BJJ icon and gym owner Marcelo Garcia told the world he had stomach cancer. Despite his optimism, the news of the four-time ADCC champ hit the wrestling world like a bullet in the gut. Garcia enjoys acclaim as a BJJ superstar, and his friendly demeanor has endeared him to the community as much as his countless world titles. Last week, we got an important update on his post-surgery condition.
Doctor Marcelo Garcia is optimistic
Garcia underwent surgery to remove the cancerous tissue on May 23. And to let his followers know the day before, he seemed hopeful because of the positive feedback from his doctor during pre-operative exams. This past Friday, he gave an update to his Instagram page that the surgery went well and that the tissue was dead when it was removed.
Marcelo Garcia wrote: “I saw the doctor today and got the best possible news, it was all dead when removed, it also hasn’t spread to any of the lymph nodes and the chances of it recurring are very slim.”
Although it’s an amazing step in the right direction, Garcia still has four more rounds of chemotherapy in his treatment. Despite this, the former champ wasted no time in thanking his supporters and discussing returning to the sport he loves.
“It will take a little longer until I’m on the mat but I’ll be back. Thank you all for all the support!” he wrote.
Professionals interact, offering well wishes to the BJJ legend
Marcelo Garcia first announced his diagnosis last January, and has documented the various stages of his health and chemotherapy treatment via social media. The best of the best from both MMA and BJJ poured into each of the comments sections, offering kind words of support for Garcia and his family.
“We will win this fighting champion!” Andre Galvao, a multi-time ADCC champion, wrote in on March 24 of Garcia’s third round of chemotherapy. Former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk sneered after Garcia’s first round of chemotherapy, commenting, “God bless you, Master.” Garcia has even elicited well wishes from more controversial figures like former UFC double champion Conor McGregor.
The Irishman wrote “Marcelo’s Prayers” in Garcia’s cancer announcement.
Naturally, the good news was warmly received by professionals. IBJJF Worlds and Pans Champion Bernardo Faria, Gracie Parra legend Romulo Barral and Tenth Planet founder Eddie Bravo were among the many famous voices to congratulate García.
Ruotolo Brothers commented, “🔥 We wish you legend the fastest recovery.”