Freddie Harmse, affectionately known as Mr Wrestling, has been declared cancer-free after battling stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

The 63-year-old wrestling legend, with 23 years of experience under his belt, was diagnosed with this aggressive form of cancer earlier this year. The news sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, with fans and fellow wrestlers rallying around him in support.

As a result of his diagnosis, Mr Wrestling had to relinquish his heavyweight title.

“It was a hectic six months of chemotherapy. The first to the third one, I handled it well, but the fourth one, I was already in a bad state, and I had given up,” he said, reflecting on his challenging journey.

• Read the initial article here: Mr Wrestling faces toughest opponent yet and needs your help

“On September 1, after my sixth chemotherapy treatment, I received blood scans and information that there was no sign of cancer in my blood. The beginning of a new life gave me a second chance at life. I feel very good and my energy levels are back,” he said, feeling grateful to have fought this tough opponent.

Despite this, he continued his anti-bullying campaigns, visiting schools across the country to spread his message against bullying, drugs, and gangsterism.

He was also awarded the Legends Award by the World Association of Wrestling.

“I did about 60 schools in total. When I felt that I was feeling okay, we went, and it helped me fight this cancer as well.”

Mr Wrestling expressed gratitude for the support he received.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed towards my BackaBuddy account and everyone who was with me during this difficult time.”

Going forward, he is now focused on his recovery and is back at the gym, with plans to return to the ring by February next year. He will also continue with his anti-bullying campaigns in schools.