Dana White has recently launched a new Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) organization known as UFC Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which is anticipated to attract a variety of high-profile competitors. This isn’t just about celebrities watching from the sidelines; rather, it’s about renowned individuals actually stepping onto the mat to compete alongside some of the greatest names in the world of martial arts! The promotion aims to create an exciting platform where both seasoned athletes and newcomers to the sport can showcase their skills in a competitive environment.

This week, Dana White and Claudia Gadelha, a prominent figure in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) who has transitioned to a role as a UFC executive, engaged in a conversation with Babcock. They enthusiastically discussed the new promotion and the accompanying YouTube series titled “UFC BJJ: Road to the Title”, designed to provide fans with an insider’s view of the competition and the preparation that goes into each event. This initiative aims to enhance viewer engagement and interest in the burgeoning world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

During their conversation, Dana highlighted that Mark Zuckerberg, Mario Lopez, and Tom Hardy have all participated in competitive tournaments, showcasing their skills in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He emphasized that this new promotion is an open invitation for anyone interested to come and compete in jiu-jitsu, regardless of their background. The inclusion of such high-profile celebrities lends a unique appeal to the event, inviting fans and aspiring practitioners to witness or participate in this exciting sport.

In fact, Dana, who serves as a board member for Meta, shared that he frequently talks about fighting with Zuckerberg. He asserted that he is serious about the potential for Zuckerberg to compete in the future. This adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, as it connects the worlds of technology and sports, highlighting how individuals from diverse fields are drawn to the competitive spirit of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

“If Mark continues his training and competing,” Dana stated, “he could definitely come here and fight in UFC BJJ, 100%. Alongside him, we also have Tom Hardy, Mario Lopez, and many other talented actors who are exceptional jiu-jitsu practitioners, many of whom remain under the radar. The prospect of seeing these celebrities compete is incredibly exciting and adds a unique twist to the traditional jiu-jitsu competition format!”

Interestingly, Zuckerberg began his journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, he has trained with some of the best fighters in the UFC, including Alex Volkanovski and Israel Adesanya. His dedication to the sport reflects the growing interest in jiu-jitsu among high-profile individuals, showcasing how martial arts can be a transformative experience for anyone, regardless of their initial skill level.

Zuckerberg even made his competitive debut in a local tournament in mid-2023, where he performed remarkably well in his matches. This experience not only highlights his commitment to the sport but also serves as an inspiration for others who may wish to pursue Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, reinforcing that with practice and dedication, anyone can excel in this demanding discipline.

Clearly, Dana White’s new BJJ organization presents a unique and competitive landscape. The level of talent competing is among the best in the world, and it’s important to note that no one is suggesting that Mark, Tom, or Mario will effortlessly step into the ring when the inaugural UFC BJJ event kicks off on June 25! The challenges faced in this sport are immense, and only those who are truly dedicated and skilled can succeed.

As for the future? It’s uncertain. Dana White emphasizes that if you possess the right skill set and dedication, anyone can step into the competition arena. This idea of inclusivity is part of what makes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu such an appealing sport for people from all walks of life.

Aside from the celebrity aspect, there’s so much more to explore with Dana and Claudia, who delve into their vision for building the new UFC BJJ organization. They discuss their aspirations, goals, and where they see the future of this exciting new venture heading. The passionate dialogue reflects their commitment to elevating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and making it accessible to a broader audience.