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For nearly two decades as a mixed martial arts fighter, Victor Valimaki put his body through rigorous training, pushing it to the limit preparing for some of the toughest fights in the cage.

It’s what made him the first MMA fighter from Edmonton to ever compete in the UFC.

It’s what allowed him to stay in the fight game for as long as he did.

But late last month, Valimaki was in another fight and it had nothing to do with anything inside the octagon.

Valimaki took part in the Bearded Bad Boys MS walk.

Why?

Because for the last six months the 36-year-old has been battling Neuromyelitis Optica — an aggressive form of multiple sclerosis.

“It was very emotional for me,” said Valimaki. “It might seem strange to get emotional over a walk, but this has thrown my entire life for a loop. I’m still paying for the walk, but it was worth it. I had a lot of support and some good friends there to help push me.”

Valimaki focused on every step as he pushed himself to finish the 2-km walk.

It may seem like a small feat for a former professional fighter, but it’s a giant step forward. It wasn’t that long ago Valimaki was even sure he would even walk again.