Julie Kedzie (left) stares Bethe Correia (right) before the fight in 2013. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Retired from MMA in 2013, Julie Kedzie revealed that she will donate her brain to science to expand knowledge about 'Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy', 'Dementia Pugilistica'. A former UFC representative, the former fighter explained the decision and reinforced her intention to collaborate with the sport in order to minimize the damage caused by the condition that affects athletes involved in combat sports around the world.
“It seems like the normal choice to make. I was hit in the head a lot, so maybe we can see what's there (in the brain), or take advantage of some data. If there's any way I can stay involved and help advance the women's cause, that's what I'll do. I want to help women in sport, because there are many studies on the male brain and, perhaps, there is a different perspective on the female brain. Knowledge has advanced considerably. As much as I am critical of the UFC and see many problems to be solved, the 'Performance Institute' has paid more attention to studies, and that is great,” said Kedzie, in an interview with 'BBC Sport'.
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According to neuroscientist Chris Nowinski, founder of the 'Concussion Legacy Foundation', which is dedicated to studying cases involving concussions in sports, Julie presents symptoms that may be related to 'Dementia Pugilistica'. The foundation, in the future, will be responsible for studying the former fighter's brain.
“Julie Kedzie, former UFC fighter, donated her brain to the Concussion Legacy Foundation for research. She has suffered from depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, impulsivity and insomnia since she retired from MMA in 2013,” Chris wrote on his Twitter profile.
With stints in Strikeforce and Ultimate, Kedzie competed in the sport between 2004 and 2013, accumulating a record of 16 wins and 13 losses.
In her last challenge, the fighter measured forces with the Brazilian Bethe Correia and was overcome in a split decision by the judges. The confrontation with 'Pitbull' represented the North American's farewell to mixed martial arts.
Today, at 42 years old, Kedzie manages a role on the board of Invicta FC. The veteran is one of those responsible for confirming clashes in the company that is dedicated exclusively to promoting challenges in women's MMA.
Julie Kedzie: Retired #UFC fighter pledges to donate brain to @ConcussionLF for #CTE research
She has suffered with depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, impulsiveness and lack of sleep since retiring from mixed martial arts in 2013. https://t.co/OYAqIPR7Mt— Chris Nowinski, Ph.D. (@ChrisNowinski1) November 15, 2023
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