Maguila, Brazilian boxing legend, dies at 66

Died this Thursday (24/10), at the age of 66, the former fighter boxing José Adilson Rodrigues dos Santos, better known as Maguila. He suffered from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)an incurable neurodegenerative disease often associated with athletes who face repeated blows to the head, such as boxers and American football players. This condition is similar to the Alzheimer’saffecting memory, cognition and behavior, and has been a growing concern in the world of impact sports.

The Fight Against Dementia Pugilistica

Maguila was diagnosed with pugilistic dementiaa term historically used to describe the impact of blows suffered in boxing on the fighters’ brains. This specific form of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) It is common in contact sport athletes, especially those with long careers. The former fighter lived his last years in the interior of São Paulo, where he sought treatment to alleviate the devastating effects of the disease.

Confirmation of Death

The news of his death was confirmed by his wife, Irani Pinheiro, who gave an interview to a TV station. “We had good times, bad times, but God was always with us,” Irani said, emotionally. She was a constant partner in the former champion’s life and was by his side during the difficult years of fighting against ETC.

Living with the Disease

In recent years, Maguila has faced major challenges due to the advancement of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. THE ETCas in the case of other fighters boxingimpacted his mental health irreversibly. Despite this, he remained active whenever possible, using the boxing as a way to keep the mind active and combat the effects of illness.

Public Appearances

One of Maguila’s last public appearances was recorded in April this year, when his family shared a video in which the former fighter practiced boxing outdoor. The practice, even in advanced stages of the disease, served as a form of therapy. “Another day of training with our heavyweight”, said the caption of the video, showing the affection and respect that his family and fans had for him.

The Impact of a Career in Boxing

Maguila had a successful career in the ring, being one of the biggest names in the boxing Brazilian. His career was marked by important victories and memorable fights, which transformed him into a national icon. However, the physical impacts of the career, especially the blows received to the head, culminated in the Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)which accompanied him until the end of his life.

The Similarity to Alzheimer’s

THE ETC that affected Maguila has symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer’s. Patients experience memory loss, cognitive difficulties and mood changes, which make life difficult for both the patient and their family members. Just like the Alzheimer’sthe ETC It is an incurable disease, but its effects can be partially alleviated with therapies and treatments that seek to improve quality of life.

Maguila’s Legacy

Even facing such a devastating disease, Maguila left an invaluable legacy for Brazilian sport. Your passion for boxing and his story of overcoming inspired many athletes and fans. In addition to his impact in the ring, Maguila became a symbol of resistance and courage in the face of the challenges of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

The Tribute on TV Cultura

Last year, Maguila was honored with a miniseries released by TV Cultura, entitled “Maguila, Um Lutador”. Divided into two episodes, the production told the story of his life and career, highlighting his biggest fights inside and outside the ring. The series celebrated his trajectory, reinforcing the importance of his legacy in boxing and its fight against the effects of ETC.

Maguila and Boxing in Brazil

Considered one of the biggest names in boxing Brazilian, Maguila was a precursor and opened doors for many other sports athletes in the country. He faced big names in the boxing worldwide and brought visibility to the sport in Brazil. His death represents a great loss, but it also reinforces the need for more attention to the impacts of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy in sport.

The Importance of Prevention

Maguila’s death reignites the debate about the risks of boxing and other contact sports for athletes’ brain health. THE Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) has been widely studied in recent years, and experts advocate preventative measures to minimize the damage caused by repetitive blows to the head. Maguila’s case serves as a warning about the importance of protecting and caring for athletes.

An Unforgettable Icon

Maguila will always be remembered as an icon of the boxing and as someone who faced an uphill battle against Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). His life path, marked by achievements and challenges, inspires those who admired him both inside and outside the ring. His fight against the disease has brought to light a fundamental discussion about the risks of impact sports and the long-term health consequences.

Summary for those in a hurry:

• Maguilaicon boxing Brazilian, died at the age of 66, victim of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).
• ETC is an incurable neurodegenerative disease, similar to Alzheimer’scaused by frequent blows to the head.
• His wife, Irani Pinheiro, confirmed the death, highlighting difficult and good moments lived with the former fighter.
• Even when he was sick, Maguila practiced boxing as a way to maintain mental health.
• TV Cultura launched the miniseries “Maguila, Um Lutador”, which tells the story of his career.
• Maguila’s death reignites the debate about the risks of ETC in contact sports.