Paul Craig, a seasoned UFC fighter, has opened up about his battle with eating disorders, a condition he developed while cutting weight for his middleweight fights. Craig, who has spent the majority of his 11-year career at light-heavyweight, moved down to middleweight in 2023. Despite a submission win over Andre Muniz, Craig lost his next three fights in the division.

Craig described the weight cut process as 'horrible,' stating that he restricted his calorie intake for 10 weeks leading up to the bouts. Normally weighing around 220lb, he had to cut down to the UFC's middleweight threshold of 185lb. This drastic weight loss led to low testosterone, low white blood cells, and frequent infections.

'I set myself a goal of being middleweight champion and focused and did it. But mentally, I ended up with an eating disorder,' said Craig. He emphasized the importance of talking to people about his struggles, as he was initially embarrassed by his condition. 'I do believe there are other fighters out there going through this so put it out there, get the help and support.'

The National Health Service (NHS) describes an eating disorder as a mental health condition where people use the control of food to cope with feelings and other situations. Unhealthy eating behaviors may include eating too much, too little, disordered eating, or worrying about body weight or shape.

Craig's experience highlights the extreme measures fighters take to meet weight requirements. 'The things fighters will do to their bodies is incredible,' he said. After reaching out for help, Craig was able to develop a 'healthier relationship' with food.

The UFC has taken steps to make weight cuts safer, including building the Performance Institute, which provides guidance from professional health experts. Intravenous drips are now banned, and fighters are recommended to lose no more than 8% of their body weight during fight week.

Craig is now returning to light-heavyweight, aiming to halt a three-fight losing streak against Brazil's Rodolfo Bellato. 'It's difficult to pick yourself up after three losses because this sport is about entertaining. This sport is about winning,' said Craig. He is aware that a loss could potentially result in him not having a UFC contract.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, you can visit BBC Action Line or get help at Beat, the UK's eating disorder charity.