In a move that adds to an already widespread debate and controversy on a sensitive aspect of combat sports, the latest President Donald Trump executive order bans trans women from competing in women’s sports in the US.
This decision has far-reaching implications, particularly within the combat sports community, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. While the order aims to address concerns about fairness in women’s sports, it has also ignited discussions about inclusivity, discrimination, and the future of combat sports.
Trump Executive Order Bans Trans Women Athletes
On February 5, 2025, National Girls and Women in Sports Day, President Trump signed the executive order, citing the need to protect the integrity of women’s sports. The order states that allowing transgender women to compete in female categories undermines fair competition and disadvantages cisgender women.
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“This decision is about ensuring a level playing field for female athletes,” Trump declared. “With this executive order, the war on women’s sports is over.”
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Trump also took aim at the International Olympic Committee, saying that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will make the White House’s stance “as clear as anybody can make it.”
“We are putting every school receiving taxpayer dollars on notice: If you let men take over women’s sports teams or invade your locker rooms, you will be investigated for violations of Title IX and risk your federal funding,” Trump added, describing a 1972 law that bars sex discrimination.
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“We want them to change everything having to do with the Olympics,” Trump announced.
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Trans Women Out: Reactions and Fallout
Transgender activists and organizations that have fought against bans were outraged by the Trump executive order bans trans women – but not surprised. Supporters argue that it is necessary to maintain fairness in sports, while critics contend that it discriminates against transgender athletes and excludes them from competitive opportunities.
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“We need to protect the rights of cisgender women in sports,”
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The stance of prominent figures in the combat sports world on the subject is clear, with the likes of Joe Rogan and GSP being vocal about this particular problem for the past decade the latter of the two stating that:
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“Safety and fairness are paramount in MMA. It’s important to find a balance that ensures fair competition without compromising the safety of athletes.”
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However, LGBTQ+ rights organizations have condemned the order, calling it a setback for transgender rights. GLADD, one of the biggest LGBTQ rights organizations in the US, also condemned Trump’s order, calling it “inaccurate and incoherent”.
“All women and girls, including transgender women and girls, should be welcome to play sports if they want, make decisions about their own bodies, be hired for jobs they are qualified for, and be free from lawless attacks by extremists in elected office,” the group said in a statement.
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“This executive order is a blatant act of discrimination,” declared a spokesperson from the Human Rights Campaign. “It sends a harmful message to transgender individuals that they are not welcome in sports.”
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Lambda Legal, a nonprofit that has partnered with the ACLU on multiple cases defending trans athletes also weighed in on the Trump executive order bans trans women. Charles a senior attorney with Lambda Legal, is unsure if the order would be challenged in court, and how quickly it might happen.
“This is yet another action from the Trump Administration that makes it abundantly clear trans people are squarely in their crosshairs, despite the fact that we are barely 1.6 percent of the population,” said Carl Charles.
A Revamp of Rules As Donald Trump Bans Transgender Athletes?
The Trump trans ban has significant implications for the world of combat sports, particularly BJJ and MMA, where gender divisions play a crucial role in competition. BJJ and MMA are unique in that they require physical strength, technique, and strategy, making the debate about transgender athletes’ participation particularly complex.
The community is already aware of the subject, and the complexities it brings, with MMA fighter Fallon Fox, who is a transgender woman, arguably the most popular name advocating about the need for inclusivity.
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“Transgender athletes face immense challenges and discrimination,” Fox stated. “Banning us from competing only perpetuates inequality and prevents us from pursuing our passion.”
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The executive order has sparked a broader conversation about how combat sports can navigate the inclusion of transgender athletes while maintaining fairness and safety.
Some propose the creation of separate divisions for transgender athletes, while others advocate for individualized assessments to ensure fair competition.
Governing bodies such as the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and ADCC will eventually play a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport. Ultimately, the path forward requires a nuanced approach that considers the diverse perspectives within the combat sports community.
Fair Play in Combat Sports: How Does it Play Out?
The future of combat sports will depend on the collective efforts of athletes, coaches, and governing bodies to create an environment where all individuals can compete with dignity and respect. As this Trump executive order bans trans women from competing in women’s sports, we’re left to figure out how to proceed ahead.
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