Fitness Trainer Punches Crocodile to Escape Death Roll

A 72-year-old fitness trainer successfully defended himself against a 10-foot crocodile while swimming off the coast of Cozumel, Mexico, last week. Eric Greager, a seasoned personal trainer, was 30 yards from shore when the predator attacked, clamping down on his arm and initiating a "death roll." Greager fought back, punching the crocodile's head and kicking its stomach until it released him. He managed to reach shore, where bystanders applied a tourniquet and called for an ambulance.

Greager required six hours of surgery to repair severed tendons and a reconnected artery in his right arm. While the attack was terrifying, he fortunately did not sustain any broken bones or severed nerves. The incident occurred during what was meant to be a vacation. Outdoor experts suggest punching a crocodile in the head or targeting its eyes or palatal valve can be effective defense mechanisms.