“It's kind of weird to face death” - BJJ legend Marcelo Garcia opens up about beating his cancer diagnosis

After conquering the biggest stages in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Marcelo Garcia found himself fighting a different battle following a massive health scare.

Last year, the 41-year-old BJJ icon revealed that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer and underwent chemotherapy and surgery to remove the tumor.

While Garcia mostly kept a tight lip during his recovery process, he opened up about arguably the greatest fight he ever partook in. He shared in an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show:

"Oh, I'm feeling great. When people ask me about it, I almost forgot all the symptoms from the treatment. I pretty much almost forget."

'Marcelino', of course, is a true warrior on and off the mats. Apart from being a generational talent in 'The Gentle Art', Marcelo Garcia is also universally beloved for his positive attitude.

Despite the hardships he endured, the decorated grappler went through it with a smile on his face, adding:

"And I try hard to just don't remember that. But it feels pretty much like [healed]. I know we can only say we [get cured] after five years, but my first two years is very important to hit that mark."

"I'm really looking for that. But I gotta say, it's kind of weird to face death. That's kind of what I felt."

Garcia also assured his fans that he's 100 percent back to full health.

"Yes. Cancer-free for a year and a half."

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Marcelo Garcia's long-awaited return will take place at ONE 170

Marcelo Garcia's days as a high-level competitor seemed all but over, considering his last appearance dated back in 2011.

'Marcelino', however, shocked the whole world when he signed an exclusive contract with ONE Championship.

The IBJJF and ADCC Hall of Famer will officially end his retirement on Jan 24, when he faces fellow legend Masakazu Imanari in an openweight submission grappling contest at ONE 170 inside Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

Watch the full interview: