Renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete and former UFC competitor Vagner Rocha has been discharged from the hospital after a five-day stay where he was diagnosed with heart failure.
The 42-year-old grappling standout shared the news through his Instagram account, revealing the severity of his condition. “Spent the last 5 days in the hospital undergoing tests, and the doctors found out I have heart failure,” Rocha wrote. “We don’t know how long this has been going on, but they said it could’ve been tragic if I had waited any longer to seek help.”
Vagner Rocha was suspended for PED use back in February of 2023. He came clean in a social media post in which he detailed:
Rocha came clean about being on TRT:
” We all can clearly see who is on PEDs and who could possibly not be. I am about to turn 41 years old and I have been competing at the top of grappling for over a decade. I have no shame to say I am on TRT replacement for my body in accordance to a doctor.”
“I enjoy training hard and competing with the best level possible in the sport. I have also always been very clear with my son and daughter about my use of testosterone replacement. I have also explained why I use this for me and why they should not use this at their age. I see a lot of young athletes, talking about being clean or natty.”
Later he added:
“I recommend younger athletes to not use PEDs and I recommend all my friends above 35 to get blood work done to check your levels so they can live a healthier life. Also if you are younger than 35 and want to get informed about your levels find a well respected doctor in your area & do your homework./;
“Long story short is many athletes are on PEDs but how many own up to it and how many really need it? A lot of people have the misconception that if you take PEDs you automatically will become good in Jiu Jitsu. But there are a lot of people out there who take PEDs and aren’t world champions. PEDs don’t magically make you good at JiuJitsu, they only work if you do.”
Many BJJ fans speculate that PED use contributed to his medical issue.
Despite the serious nature of the diagnosis, Rocha maintained an optimistic outlook, expressing his faith and gratitude. “Years ago, this would’ve completely shaken me, but the closer I grow to God, the more I trust he’s in control,” he shared. “It’s been a serious situation, but through it all, I’ve experienced a deep sense of peace.”
Rocha has been a prominent figure in the competitive grappling scene since retiring from MMA in 2017. His recent accomplishments include securing a silver medal at the prestigious Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) championship, where he faced Mica Galvao in the finals. He also claimed bronze at the 2022 ADCC World Championship, where he was recognized for participating in the event’s ‘Best match.’
As he begins his recovery journey, Rocha remains focused on monitoring his heart health while maintaining his characteristic resilience. “Now I am on the road of recovery, taking one day at a time and keep monitoring my heart,” he stated, emphasizing his trust in the process ahead.
