Top American UFC fighter gives a special needs "brother" his dream match

UFC veteran Diego Sanchez and his friend Isaac "The Shermanator" Marquez. Photo / Facebook

A top UFC fighter has thrown a bout - but it was for a very good cause.

American Diego Sanchez became friends with Isaac Marquez, an MMA fan who has Down syndrome, after Marquez had visited a gym where leading fighters train.

The 35-year-old Sanchez invited Marquez - now known as "The Shermanator" - to join the training sessions, then promised him a fight.

The bout has just taken place, with Sanchez allowing Marquez a first round victory via an armbar in the cage at an Albuquerque casino.

Sanchez said: "Most down syndrome adults don't live past 45. Isaac is 32, and I just wanted to see this young man be healthy.

"Exercise and martial arts are one of the most healthy things you can do."

Diego Sanchez and Isaac Marquez met at the MMA gym. Photo / Instagram

Among Sanchez's achievements is winning the first instalment of the Ultimate Fighter reality show and he was a King of the Cage champion.

Before the fight, Sanchez told the KRQE television station: "Isaac lost his mother to dementia and if you ever talk to Isaac he will show you his tattoo.

Marquez sparring before the fight.

"He is doing it all for his mom, and he is going to win the championship for his mom. So, that's the kind of heart that this kid has."

Marquez told KRQE: "Diego, he's my friend. My brother."