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Elias Theodorou was a former professional MMA fighter who tragically passed away in September after a battle with colon cancer. 'The Spartan' fought for the UFC between 2014 and 2019. He fought 11 times under the banner and had a record of 8-3 in the promotion. He was also a TUF Nations winner.
During UFC Fight Night 214 in Orlando this weekend, the UFC paid tribute to Elias Theodorou. Chad Pearson, the former coach of 'The Spartan', as well as Theodorou's parents were in attendance at UFC Orlando.
Prior to the start of the co-main event, Jon Anik commemorated the career of Theodorou in the most touching moment of the evening. A video of the tribute was posted on Twitter by @UFC_CA with the caption:
"Honouring the life of Elias Theodorou. We are proud to have his parents and coach in attendance tonight at #UFCOrlando"
Watch the video below:
Theodorou faced some incredibly tough opposition in the UFC, including Derek Brunson, Thiago Santos, and Brad Tavares. 'The Spartan' last fought in December 2021 at Colorado Combat Club 10 and won the fight via a decision.
According to close friend and combat sports analyst Robin Black, Theodorou did not share his battle with cancer publicly. The Theodorou Foundation has been set up in memory of 'The Spartan' and as a way to ensure people who are battling similar diseases get the necessary help.
Elias Theodorou also paved the way for more acceptance of medical marijuana usage in the sport of MMA. 'The Spartan' was granted a therapeutic exemption to use marijuana for neuropathic pain in his limbs and was regarded as an early advocate for the use of the plant.
Elias Theodorou on his continued fight for fair treatment of marijuana use in sports
Although Elias Theodorou passed away in September 2022 after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, the legacy of 'The Spartan' will continue to live on. Theodorou was an early advocate for the use of medical marijuana in the sport of MMA. When most people think of MMA fighters who use marijuana, they automatically think of Nick and Nate Diaz. However, 'The Spartan' was arguably a bigger advocate for the legalization of marijuana.
Theodorou suffered from bilateral neuropathy, which caused a painful tingling sensation in his arms and hands. He then consulted with health professionals and collected research in order to make the case for a medical marijuana exemption from state commissions.
Shortly before his passing away, Theodorou spoke to MMA Junkie about his continued fight for fair treatment of marijuana usage:
"This is not only about me, this is about setting a precident for other athletes to use the blueprint that I've set forth."
Watch the interview below:
