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Paul ‘The Polar Bear’ Varelans, UFC Early Shining Star, Dies of Coronavirus at 51

By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent

Atlanta, Georgia (January 18th, 2021)–  Tall and Gigantic, Paul ‘The Polar Bear’ Varelans, one of the UFC’s original early stars, one of the first No Holds Barred fighters, whose 9-9 record made him an early MMA pioneer star and veteran of the Octagon at UFC 6, 7 and 8, and the first two Ultimate Ultimate MMA tournaments, died on Saturday, January 16, 2021, of complications from COVID-19 Novel coronavirus. Varelans died after being placed in December 2020 into a medically induced coma at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Known as ‘The Polar Bear’ because he came from Alaska and stood 6’8″, a tall successor to Andre The Giant, Varelans made it to the finals of UFC 7, but was defeated by Marco Ruas.



Varelans also competed in other MMA promotions, including the WVC, Pancrase and Extreme Challenge. Varelans was hospitalized immediately after his physical health and condition deteriorated, which necessitated his being put into a medically induced coma and placed on a ventilator to save his life. After more than two months, and a valiant struggle, Varelans lost his final fight for his life.

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Robert Brizel - Head Boxing Correspondent
Robert Brizel - Head Boxing Correspondent
Robert is the Head Boxing Correspondent for Real Combat Media Boxing since 2013. Robert is also a photographer and ringside reporter for the RCM Tri State region which includes NJ, NY and PA. Robert conducts exclusive interviews, provides historical boxing articles and provides editorial ringside coverage of major boxing events. You can contact or follow Robert on Facebook and by email at [email protected].