Meet the Former UFC Fighter Battling MS One Day at a Time

Alberto Crane, a former UFC fighter and Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion, is battling multiple sclerosis (MS) with the same determination and resilience he displayed in the octagon. Just five years after making his UFC debut, Crane was diagnosed with MS in 2012, a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, interrupting signals between the brain and body, and gradually diminishing one's ability to move and speak. Despite the devastating diagnosis, Crane has refused to let the disease define him, carrying his fighter's mentality into what he describes as another match.

Now 49, Crane is the founder of Legacy Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and has recently released his memoir, "All In: Lessons On and Off The Mat." In the book, Crane shares his journey of coming to terms with his diagnosis, his passion for jiu-jitsu, and how innovative movement training is helping him stay in the fight against MS.

In an interview with InsideHook ahead of the book's launch, Crane recounted how his journey with Brazilian jiu-jitsu began. He explained that it all started around the time he finished high school when a friend, who was smaller than him, arm-barred him multiple times. Intrigued by his friend's success, Crane decided to join a jiu-jitsu class and quickly became obsessed. He found that the sport brought him happiness and a sense of peace, allowing him to prove himself in the world.

When his friend moved to Brazil to compete, Crane followed, immersing himself in the jiu-jitsu community. There, he learned the importance of winning and honed his skills, which ultimately made him a better person overall. This experience laid the foundation for his future career in mixed martial arts (MMA).

Crane's journey into the UFC began when he returned to New Mexico after competing in jiu-jitsu tournaments worldwide. He was invited to compete in an event called King of the Cage, where he was initially placed low on the card. However, due to his growing fan base, he was moved up to the semi-main event, marking his first MMA fight.

After making his UFC debut, Crane's career took off, but in 2012, he was diagnosed with MS. The disease, which has no cure but can be managed with treatments that slow its progression, posed a significant challenge to Crane's life and career. However, he refused to let it define him, maintaining the same fighting spirit that had propelled him to success in the octagon.

In his memoir, Crane delves into the challenges of coming to terms with his diagnosis and the emotional toll it took on him and his family. He also highlights the importance of jiu-jitsu in his life, describing it as a source of strength and a way to maintain his mental and physical well-being.

In addition to his book, Crane is an advocate for innovative movement training that can help individuals with MS. He believes that such training can play a crucial role in managing the disease and maintaining independence. Through his memoir and advocacy work, Crane continues to inspire others facing similar challenges, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, one can find the strength to persevere.

Alberto Crane's story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. From his early days in Brazilian jiu-jitsu to his UFC career and now his battle with MS, Crane has faced numerous challenges head-on. His memoir, "All In: Lessons On and Off The Mat," offers valuable insights into his journey and serves as a source of inspiration for those navigating their own battles. With his unwavering spirit and love for jiu-jitsu, Crane remains a fighter in every sense of the word.