Brendan Schaub recently opened up about his longtime friend and former UFC fighter Shane Carwin, revealing his struggle with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Schaub described Carwin as “a brother” and expressed concern over the long-term impact of head trauma on Carwin’s ability to function.
Carwin, a former UFC interim heavyweight champion and Schaub’s primary training partner fought six times under the UFC banner, compiling a 4-2 record in the promotion. However, years of intense sparring and head injuries have left Carwin suffering from significant cognitive decline. Schaub noted that Carwin, once an engineer, is now unable to hold down even a simple job. The 41-year-old’s comments highlight the devastating toll of repeated brain trauma.
Schaub candidly reflected on the intense training methods they both endured, sparring multiple times a week without understanding the long-term consequences. He compared it to smoking cigarettes before people knew the health risks. The dangers of their old-school mentality, prioritizing toughness over safety, have become clear as Carwin now struggles with severe symptoms, including memory loss and cognitive impairment.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Schaub Show, Schaub seemingly battled tears while talking about Cawrin’s situation and said:
“Former world champ! How do you just not go, ‘I get it dude.’ Boom! $10-15 million [for] your troubles. Can we be human for a fu*king second? You don’t have to do it publicly. From fu*king human to human… This guy put his life on the line. I’ve seen it dude. I was with him every step of the way from day fu*king one. He’s such a good person. That’s pennies to these guys.”
Shane Carwin reflects on struggles after fighting career
Former UFC interim heavyweight champion Shane Carwin has opened up about the long-term impact of the brain trauma he sustained during his six-fight career with the UFC. Carwin, once a top contender, now struggles with severe cognitive issues that have derailed his life outside of the cage.
In a revealing statement, Carwin shared details about his condition. Carwin’s story is part of a larger legal battle involving multiple fighters against the UFC, many of whom are seeking compensation for the long-term damage they’ve endured. He wrote:
“Cognitive tests conducted at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health and Concussion Legacy Foundation at Boston University (among others) are indicating I have suffered damage to the pre-frontal cortex and left hemisphere. I spend days in bed suffering from bouts of paranoia, fear, and anxiety.” [H/t: MMA Junkie]
