Former boxing champion, Bellator fighter Heather Hardy suffering from ‘traumatic brain injury’ – ‘Hardest fight of my life’

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 26 - Former WBO Featherweight champion and four-time Bellator veteran Heather Hardy is seeking assistance from the combat sports community as she grapples with the severe consequences of a traumatic brain injury. In a recent GoFundMe campaign, Hardy revealed that the years of enduring punches have taken a toll on her health, vision, and work capacity. "Now I'm facing the hardest fight of my life outside the ring," Hardy wrote in her campaign.

At 44, Hardy boasts a 24-3 professional boxing record, with one "No Contest." She also competed four times for the Bellator organization between 2017 and 2019, achieving a 2-2 record with one knockout win. Hardy's last professional bout was in August 2023, where she suffered a significant loss to Amanda Serrano in a rematch. Following the fight, Hardy experienced double vision, dizziness, and other post-concussion symptoms, leading to a neurologist's diagnosis of a traumatic brain injury. This diagnosis prompted her to retire from combat sports.

Hardy aims to use the donations for her immediate living expenses while focusing on her health and stability. She encourages supporters to contribute and share her fundraiser, stating, "If my fights ever inspired you, if you cheered for my championships, or if you've ever given everything to a job only to have it take your health and leave you without help, please consider donating and sharing this fundraiser." As of this writing, Hardy's GoFundMe campaign has garnered more than $42,000 towards its $100,000 goal.