Two of “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Tests” ’s most determined recruits were forced to cut their journeys short after suffering unexpected health scares on the show’s November 6 episode.
In the latest installment of the Fox reality series, retired soccer icon Christie Pearce Rampone woke up in the Moroccan desert gasping for air after a night of nonstop coughing. “I need something. I can’t breathe,” the 49-year-old told Special Forces medic Dr. Andy Brown.
FoxAfter checking her lungs, Dr. Brown delivered difficult news. “Your chest sounds really tight and you’ve got lots of crackles in your lungs,” he said, as per E! News. “I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to do any more exercise.”
The diagnosis meant Rampone had to leave the competition immediately. Holding back tears, the World Cup champion admitted the decision hit her hard. “If I have to leave earlier than I feel I was capable of, it will definitely get at me,” she said. “Not being as strong as I thought I was.”
Mark Estes Faces Painful Ear Injury
FOXThat same morning, fellow contestant Mark Estes began experiencing severe pain in his ear after several grueling challenges. “My ear feels so messed up,” the 24-year-old TikTok personality told his teammates, as reported by E! News.
After a visit to the medic, Estes learned the injury could lead to long-term damage. “There is some swelling there,” the medic said. “It can cause long-term disfigurement.” She added that Estes needed to go to a hospital immediately.
FOXWanting to stay in the competition, Estes pleaded, “There’s no possible way we can do it?” But the medic confirmed it wasn’t safe. “It’s a specialist procedure,” she told him.
An Emotional Goodbye
Despite his frustration, Estes accepted his medical withdrawal with disappointment. “That sucks,” he said before leaving camp. The Special Forces directors praised both contestants for their grit and resilience under extreme conditions.
“Mark, you’ve done a really good job here,” one of the directing staff told him. “You’ve shown commitment and determination.”
The Mission Continues
Rampone and Estes’ departures were among the most emotional moments of the season. Their fellow recruits looked on with visible concern as the two were escorted out of the desert base.
The competition carries on in Morocco, where the remaining participants continue to face grueling physical and mental challenges.
Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. on Fox.
