The UFC has partnered with Fightstory, a nonprofit organization that was founded by Mililani alumna Angela Lee Pucci, with plans of providing more mental health support and resources for athletes.
Lee Pucci, a former champion with ONE Championship, retired in 2023 at the age of 27. Shortly before announcing her retirement, Lee Pucci founded Fightstory in hopes of helping other athletes who were struggling with mental health. She currently serves as Fightstory's president and executive director.
Lee Pucci revealed that she made a suicide attempt in 2017 prior to a fight. Her sister, Victoria Lee, took her own life at 18 on Dec. 26, 2022. Lee Pucci has not fought since then.
The partnership between the UFC and Fightstory is highlighted by a mental health fight kit, which features four key elements (courtesy Fightstory):
- Pre-Fight Kit Self-Assessment – A guided check-in tool to help fighters evaluate their mental fitness and identify areas for growth.
- The Warrior’s Self-Concept – A deep dive into personal identity, mindset, and values through reflections and journaling.
- Mindset of a Champion – Mental training frameworks such as the Growth, Warrior, Stoic, and Compassionate mindsets.
- Core Mental Performance Topics – 12 practical skills covering areas like emotional regulation, breath control, visualization, and adaptability.
Each section includes science-based guidance for athletes to integrate the mental health fight kit's tools into their daily lives.
“We’re incredibly grateful to UFC for aligning with our mission to break the silence around mental health,” said Lee Pucci. “Through their generous support, we are building tools like the Mental Fight Kit that will empower athletes to build emotional resilience and ultimately help fighters thrive on their unique journey.”
Fightstory's collaboration with the UFC arrives in time for May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States.
Christian Shimabuku can be reached at christian@alohastatedaily.com.
