Deion Sanders reveals cancer battle, announces he’s cured after successful surgery [VIDEO]

Coach Prime Credits God and Medical Team Following Cancer-Free Announcement

University of Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders publicly revealed at a press conference this morning (July 28, 2025), that he was diagnosed with a malignant bladder tumor earlier this year. Sanders underwent a robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery to remove his bladder and have a new one constructed from intestinal tissue. His medical team is led by urologic oncologist Dr. Janet Kukreja. She confirmed that Sanders is now cured of cancer. Therefore, stating there is no evidence of remaining disease.

The disclosure follows months of speculation over Sanders’ health, as he was notably absent from offseason activities and team-related events. Thus, spending most of his recovery time in Texas. Though social media buzzed with rumors ranging from circulatory issues to coaching fatigue, Sanders chose not to speak publicly until after his successful treatment. During the press conference, he spoke emotionally about the challenges he faced, his gratitude to God, and the strength he drew from his support system. He acknowledged the weight of coaching amid personal turmoil. Therefore, stating, “You have no idea how good God has been to me.”

Speculation and Absence Prior to Public Disclosure

Early this year, Deion Sanders’ noticeable absence from offseason team events and recruiting activity began to stir curiosity and concern. Initially described as stemming from an “unspecified illness,” the lack of transparency prompted speculation on social media. Some posts suggested a return of Sanders’ past circulatory problems, while others accused him of stepping back from coaching responsibilities, perhaps due to personal or family matters. Without confirmation, these rumors swirled on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fueling debates about his future with the Colorado Buffaloes.

However, behind the scenes, Sanders was undergoing medical evaluations that led to the discovery of the cancerous tumor. The coaching icon chose to remain silent during this time to focus on recovery and to shield his family—particularly his sons, who are both prominent members of the football team—from the stress of a public medical ordeal. His eventual announcement was a conscious effort to control the narrative and to share his journey from a position of strength.

The Surgical Procedure and Medical Outlook

Medical experts say the procedure Sanders underwent—robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy—is a significant advancement in urologic oncology. By using robotic precision, the surgery reduces complications, bleeding, and recovery time compared to traditional methods. For non-metastatic bladder cancer cases like Sanders’, survival and cure rates are promising, with some studies showing up to 65% survival at 10 years and recurrence-free rates of around 59%.

Dr. Kukreja explained that robot-assisted surgeries offer patients a much quicker return to normal life compared to open surgeries. Patients typically experience fewer complications and often resume daily activities sooner. Sanders’ decision to undergo this minimally invasive yet highly technical surgery underscores both his access to elite medical care and his trust in cutting-edge treatment options.

Sanders has reportedly lost between 12 and 25 pounds during recovery but says he feels strong and is preparing to return full-time to his coaching duties.

History of Health Struggles

The announcement also helps explain Sanders’ previous health struggles. He has a history of circulatory issues, including severe blood clots that led to the amputation of two toes in 2021. Those past complications had already forced him into emergency surgery, with doctors then describing his condition as life-threatening. While no medical sources have publicly linked those issues to his recent diagnosis, some online discussions have attempted to connect the dots, especially among anti-vaccine communities that cite “turbo cancer” theories. However, these claims lack scientific support, and Sanders’ team has attributed his health challenges to family history and preexisting circulatory problems.

In interviews following the 2021 ordeal, Sanders spoke candidly about how that brush with death changed his perspective. He became more vocal about prioritizing health and leaned into his faith even more. Thus, often posting motivational messages on social media. That foundation likely helped him face this latest health crisis with similar resilience.

Timeline of Diagnosis and Treatment

Timeline analysis reveals that Sanders’ condition was discovered during a routine check-up in the spring of this year. He underwent surgery shortly after, which involved removing the bladder and building a neobladder. That’s a reconstructed bladder from intestinal tissue. His team noted that the robotic procedure allowed for better outcomes. So, Sanders was able to start recovery in the following weeks. Despite the demanding surgery, Sanders says he’s fully focused on returning to the field and leading the Buffaloes this upcoming season.

His recovery has been closely monitored by his team of specialists. These specialists emphasized that no additional treatment is required at this time. Routine follow-up appointments and scans will continue to ensure no recurrence. Sanders noted that while he’s not back to 100% physically, his determination to lead the team is stronger than ever.

Public Support and Media Reactions

Public reaction has been overwhelmingly supportive. Posts on X (formerly Twitter) featured messages of encouragement and praise for his resilience. Many users called out critics who previously accused Sanders of faking illness or using it as a reason to avoid coaching amid speculation about his sons entering the NFL draft. Replies from fans and athletes alike praised Sanders’ transparency, strength, and unwavering dedication to both faith and football.

The news cycle quickly shifted from speculation to celebration, with major sports outlets running features on Sanders’ recovery. Analysts speculated that the revelation could strengthen the Buffaloes’ locker room unity, as players rally behind their coach who beat cancer.

Medical Team Confirms Sanders Is Cancer-Free

Dr. Kukreja spoke during the press conference. Thus, stating, “I am pleased to report that the results from the surgery are that he is cured from the cancer.” She emphasized that Sanders has responded exceptionally well and will continue post-operative care to ensure long-term success. The medical team will monitor him regularly, but no further cancer treatment is currently planned.

Her confidence was echoed by other specialists on the team. They stated that the early detection and complete resection of the tumor significantly improved Sanders’ prognosis. His case is expected to serve as a clinical example of successful surgical intervention when utilizing robotic precision in oncology.