Irish welterweight fighter Ian Coughlan, who made his Bellator debut in September 2019, has suffered a serious spinal injury in training which has left him paralysed, and supporters of the 29-year-old have launched a GoFundMe campaign aimed at providing the necessary care and treatment as he looks to overcome his injury.

Per the campaign: “On July 31st, 2021 Ian was doing what he loved and was passionate about, which was training towards his goal of becoming a MMA World Champion. Unfortunately, due to a freak accident he landed on his head and within a split second became completely paralyzed and unable to move. Within that moment Ian lost not only the ability to do what he loved but also his full time job and his ability to use his own body.

“Ian has been lying in Galway University Hospital since with very minor improvements. Ian no doubt has serious injuries, and has a long road of rehabilitation ahead.

“Unsurprisingly, with Ian’s determination and the doctors advice we are confident we will get Ian back on his feet walking again.

“Ian is without question the first person to be there to help and care for others normally, but now he needs our help. We want to help Ian and his young family through this challenging time and hopefully get Ian back on his feet.

“Every little bit of spare change & social media shares will help Ian and his family going through this huge change in their life and all the extra expenses they will encounter in this tough time.

“This Is Ian’s Toughest Fight Yet But We Know He Will Pull Through!”

A goal of €100,000 has been set for the financial drive which currently stands just shy of €10,000 in the hours since the campaign was launched late Sunday night.

You can visit the campaign website here, and please consider giving what you can to help out Ian and his friends and family.