Former NBA star who Jake Paul knocked out now 'battling to save his life'
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Former NBA player Nate Robinson, once known for his brief boxing career that ended with a knockout loss to Jake Paul in 2020, is now facing a far more challenging fight.
The 39-year-old is battling kidney failure, a condition that has drastically altered his life.
Robinson's health struggles began in 2021 when he was told his kidneys were failing.
Since then, he has been undergoing gruelling dialysis treatments three times a week, each session lasting three-and-a-half hours.
The ex-basketball star is currently searching for a kidney donor whilst maintaining a rigorous medication regimen to manage his condition.
Robinson's journey with kidney issues began early in his NBA career.
Nate Robinson is battling for his life amid his health problems
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After vomiting during a training session as a rookie, tests revealed his kidneys were not functioning properly - a condition his father had also faced.
Despite this knowledge, Robinson continued his basketball career, aware that kidney failure could occur in the future.
When that day arrived in 2021, he was faced with a stark choice: begin immediate dialysis or risk death.
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Initially hesitant to publicly appeal for a donor, Robinson has since opened up about his need. He has received potential offers, giving hope for a future transplant.
Robinson's resilience in the face of his health challenges is evident.
He takes multiple daily medications to keep his blood pressure down, hoping this will improve his chances for a successful transplant in the coming months.
Despite the difficulties, Robinson maintains a positive outlook.
He told ESPN, "Later on in life, when I get a kidney, I'm going to be looking back, like, 'Damn, I really went through all this.'"
Nate Robinson's boxing career did not last long
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The former NBA guard remains determined to overcome this obstacle, just as he fought to establish himself in professional basketball.
Robinson's determination shines through in his words. "That kidney I get, I'm going to cherish it. I'm going to treat it like a baby," he told ESPN.
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Nate Robinson was knocked out by Jake Paul in 2020
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He remains grateful for each day, saying, "Every time I wake up and open my eyes, I pray. I go to sleep, and I pray. I'm just thankful, man."
The former NBA player reflects on his life's journey with pride. "I had to grind to get out of the mud.
And, I'm going to grind to get out of the mud of this, too," he stated, embodying the same fighting spirit that propelled his basketball career.
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