Martial arts is often seen as a form of self-defense, fitness, and competition. However, it has also had a profound impact on many individuals' lives, particularly those who have faced personal challenges or difficulties. In some cases, martial arts has even saved their lives.

Here, we take a look at some of the fighters who have been saved by martial arts and how it has helped to instill discipline and structure into their lives.

1.     Georges St-Pierre

Georges St-Pierre, one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time, has credited martial arts for saving his life. Growing up in Quebec, St-Pierre was bullied relentlessly by other children, which led to anxiety and depression. However, after discovering karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, he found a way to cope with his emotions and build confidence. Martial arts not only helped him overcome his childhood trauma but also gave him the focus and discipline needed to become a champion.

2.     Bas Rutten

Former UFC heavyweight champion Bas Rutten credits martial arts for saving him from a life of crime. Growing up in the Netherlands, Rutten was involved in street fighting and gang activity, but after discovering martial arts, he was able to channel his aggression and find a new purpose in life. Martial arts gave him discipline and structure, and he went on to become a successful fighter and commentator.

3.     Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey is a former UFC women's bantamweight champion and one of the most recognizable faces in MMA. However, before she discovered judo, Rousey struggled with self-confidence and a sense of purpose. After discovering martial arts, she found a passion and focus that helped her overcome these issues. Judo not only gave her the physical tools to become a world-class fighter but also the mental fortitude to succeed in life.

4.     Anderson Silva

Former UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva grew up in poverty in Brazil and turned to martial arts as a way to escape his circumstances. He found a love for martial arts, which gave him discipline and structure, and he went on to become one of the greatest fighters of all time. Silva has credited martial arts with giving him the tools to succeed in life and overcome adversity.

5.     Demetrious Johnson

Demetrious Johnson, also known as "Mighty Mouse," is a former UFC flyweight champion and one of the most dominant fighters in MMA history. However, before he discovered martial arts, he struggled with anger management issues and a lack of direction in life. After discovering kickboxing, he found a new focus and discipline that helped him overcome these issues. Johnson has credited martial arts with saving his life and giving him a sense of purpose.

In conclusion, martial arts has helped many fighters overcome personal challenges and achieve success in life. It provides a structure, discipline, and focus that can be transformative for individuals struggling with mental health issues or other personal difficulties. Through hard work and dedication, martial arts can provide a path to a better life and a brighter future.