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Hughes' condition improving after collision with train, according to sister

Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC / UFC / Getty

Things are starting to look up for Matt Hughes.

After being hospitalized due to a collision with a moving train just over a week ago, the former UFC welterweight champion's condition has improved, his sister, Beth Hughes Ulrici, announced Sunday on Facebook.

"Our family would like to thank everyone for your thoughts and prayers for Matt," her post read. "He is improving and continues to show us his heart and determination each day. He has a long road ahead of him and your continued thoughts and prayers will help him with the journey."

Hughes is currently in stable condition at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Ill., but has only been slightly responsive despite not suffering any broken bones or internal injuries in the accident. The 43-year-old collided with a moving train while driving his pickup truck in Raymond, Ill. on June 16. According to Marc Raimondi of MMA Fighting, the state police are still investigating the incident.

The Illinois native twice held the UFC welterweight strap and had recently entertained returning to the cage in what would have marked his first fight since September 2011.

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