UFC trailblazer Matt Hamill has revealed he can now hear his family's voices for the first time in over four decades.

Hamill, 48, achieved worldwide acclaim as the first deaf competitor in Dana White's promotion, boasting a 13-8 MMA record from 2005 to 2018. His most historic moment in the cage was beating Jon Jones by disqualification – the only career defeat for the UFC icon to this day.

In his light heavyweight fights, Hamill became adept at using visual cues and lip-reading to communicate with his corner. His inspiring journey was even captured in the 2010 movie "The Hammer," titled after his nickname.

Recently, thanks to new cutting-edge technology, Hamill's world changed. He explained all in an emotional post on Instagram where he posed for a selfie with his daughter Elaina and son Matt.

The caption read: "I just got the most powerful digital hearing aids ever made. For the first time in 41 years, I can finally hear my kids' voices, the sounds of people walking and laughing.

"I finally heard my mom's voice and she cried. I'm looking forward to hearing my brother Pat's voice too. I only hope he doesn't have a voice like a foghorn. This is awesome although I know it will take time to adapt to all of this. Happy New Year!"

This incredible news touched the hearts of his followers, with one commenting: "Just happy to see this. Moments like these are quite nice." Another reacted: "Congratulations, this is huge! So happy for you."

A third wrote: "Time to put on all your fights and hear the crowds that were cheering just for you!!!" While a fourth said: "That is awesome Matt! What a great gift to hear your children's voices for the first time."

Hamill didn't let being born deaf stop him from becoming a three-time NCAA Division III National Champion in wrestling, setting the tone for his inspirational career. He now supports his kids in their own burgeoning amateur careers and with his new ability to hear, he can guide them like never before.