“It turns out I had multiple herniated discs in my lower back,” Matthew said. “I also had to get part of my neck replaced because of the amount of nerve damage.”

Months and months of intense rehab followed, and that’s when Matthew fell in love with both powerlifting and MMA.

“Two years ago, I started going to the gym and watching my diet,” Brian said. “Since that point, I’ve lost 70 pounds, but still have 20-30 to go. I’m in the best shape of my life, and APEMAN has really inspired me throughout the journey.”

“The whole mentality behind APEMAN is something that I hold dear and channel when I lift,” he said. “It’s amazing to know there is a brand that is sincere, genuine, and greater than popularity and social media likes and shares."

“I don't know how to live without this fight inside of me now,” he said. “Most of the people in my life don't understand and I don't expect them to. They didn't survive what I did. They don't know the fire inside."

It’s my sincere hope that if anyone is reading this and going through what seems to be an insurmountable battle, NEVER give up.

Let’s continue “lifting” each other. 

“Being a recovering addict, I was constantly searching for something outside of myself to fill the void, anything to get away from myself,” Davis said. “I found powerlifting...

“To me, APEMAN STRONG means not giving up no matter what the odds are,” he said. “It means supporting those who fight the good fight.

“It’s family.”