28 year-old MMA fighter Cris Lencioni in ICU after suffering cardiac arrest in training

MMA fighter Cris Lencioni is currently in “his biggest fight yet", according to his family as the 28-year-old rising star was placed in intensive care after suffering a cardiac arrest earlier this month.

Lencioni went into cardiac arrest during a training session on 8 June, his wife Marca revealed on social media and has been in hospital ever since. Marca says they are "hopeful" he will continue to make progress.

"The athletes at the gym were great and immediately called 911 and did their best to address his needs until paramedics arrived,” she wrote on Instagram.

The Lencioni family has since started a GoFundMe page to help cover medical expenses.

Image credit: Instagram @crissunshinemma

"As you can imagine this was completely unexpected considering he is only 28 and in peak physical condition. Cris is currently in the ICU in his biggest fight yet,” the post reads.

Image credit: Instagram @crissunshinemma

"Cris has made a significant impact on those in his life and community. He is quite a character, quick to tease and make jokes, has the most infectious laugh, and is always so full of light and life. Cris is a natural entertainer, his MMA persona makes him so fun to watch.

"He loves working with children and has often made sure kids were able to participate in tournaments and train BJJ in his gym regardless of their ability to pay. He has always talked about the importance of mentoring kids and being there to support kids who are struggling with hard things. His gym and kids' program is his passion project."

Image credit: Instagram @crissunshinemma

Lencioni, who is contracted to Bellator, is scheduled to fight Ireland's James Gallagher at Bellator 298 on 11 August.

"We are aware of Lencioni's current medical condition and are monitoring the situation closely," Bellator said.

Image credit: Instagram @crissunshinemma

Lencioni has a fighting record of 10-3 with a record of 5-2 in Bellator events.

The featherweight has won six events by submission - with the other four coming by decisions: two unanimous and two split.