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'The Challenge': Nelson sacrificed a million dollars for Cory, fans say it's a 'selfless and beautiful act'

Nelson didn't want to compete with Cory and it was evident. Cory was overwhelmed and trying hard to hold back his tears as he gave Nelson a tight hug

Nelson Thomas and Cory Wharton's equation will go down as one of the best friendships in the history of 'The Challenge: Total Madness.' It takes a lot to willfully let a million dollars slip away.

When Johnny 'Bananas' Devenanzio and Kyle Christie were discussing the nominations and deciding on the names that would go into the final elimination, Nelson walked up and offered a suggestion. He insisted that he be sent to compete against Rogan O'Connor in the Hall Brawl challenge because for Cory the money means a lot and would do him and his family a world of good. Nelson didn't want to compete with Cory and it was evident. Even though Bananas was unsure of pitting Nelson against Rogan, while announcing the contenders for the final round, he changed his mind and even shared the reason for doing so. Cory was overwhelmed and trying hard to hold back his tears as he gave Nelson a tight hug. 

Meanwhile, fans are in awe of the sacrifice Nelson made for Cory. Nelson wasn't the most-loved contestant, but he is one now. 

"Well I think we all love Nelson a little more now. Pulling all my heartstrings. #TheChallenge," a fan commented, while another shared: "@_nelsonthomas Mad respect to you Nelson, you are an awesome man and friend, can't wait till you win a challenge finale, you so deserve it."

"Nelson may annoy me 90% of the time, but man, him volunteering to go into purgatory and sacrificing his own chance at $1mill for Cory’s is the most ride or die respectful thing I’ve ever seen on this show. I legit teared up #TheChallenge #TheChallengeTotalMadness," one user pointed out. "I need a @_nelsonthomas in my life. Nelson, you get on my nervous sometimes, but I think I just saw a piece of the real you and it was beautiful. #TheChallenge," a fan expressed. 

It was brave and beautiful of Nelson to put himself in the final challenge. Somewhere he knew he wouldn't stand a chance against Rogan and yet he was willing to take that risk for Cory, his friend. It was truly selfless and the gesture will always be remembered. 

Catch 'The Challenge: Total Madness' final on July 15, Wednesday.