WWE Tough Enough winner Matt Cappotelli determined to be a role model during terminal brain cancer fight

Last time we checked in on WWE Tough Enough winner Matt Cappotelli, the folks in his old home promotion - Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) - were getting ready to throw a fundraiser for him as he continued to deal with brain cancer.

Unfortunately, the news Cappotelli’s received since hasn’t been good. But he’s continuing to try to be a hopeful role model in spite of a negative prognosis.

Ten years ago, Matt retired from wrestling during a first round of cancer and surgery to remove a brain tumor. Earlier this year, doctors discovered the cancer had returned in a more aggressive form, that of a grade IV GlioBlastoma Multiforme (GBM).

As WDRB in Louisville reports, surgery removed 90% of his current tumor, but the remainder was too close to his brain stem to operate on. That is being treated with chemotherapy, but the overall forecast points to his having no more than five years to live (only 5% of patients in his condition live that long).

He’s still not giving up. After retiring from wrestling, Matt became a personal trainer, and he continues to treat himself with diet and exercise. He’s also wearing a cap called an Optune device 18 hours a day which aims to stop the tumor from growing by administering electronic waves to his brain.

“Though it seems unfortunate, I want it to be portrayed as a story of hope... unending hope," Cappotelli told WDRB.

Efforts like the OVW benefit have raised more than $30,000 for his medical expenses, but they continue to mount. If you want to help, there’s a gofundme where you can donate and get updates on Matt’s treatment. Find that here.

On behalf of everyone in the Cageside Seats community, continued best wishes to Capotelli and his friends and family.