In a bold statement that has sent ripples through the martial arts community, UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has questioned the integrity of BJJ black belts awarded to MMA fighters. Makhachev’s critique has reignited the debate about the standards and significance of the real BJJ black belts in modern combat sports.
Islam Makhachev, a prodigy of Dagestan and a student of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, is renowned for his formidable grappling skills.
With a foundation in combat sambo, Makhachev’s transition to MMA has been marked by dominant performances and a keen understanding of ground fighting.
However, his recent comments have raised eyebrows and sparked discussions among fans and fighters alike.
Makhachev Questions BJJ Integrity: “You Have to Compete to Earn It!”
In an interview, Makhachev questioned the standards of awarding BJJ black belts to MMA fighters, suggesting that they are given too easily.
“You have to compete in Jiu-Jitsu,” Makhachev stated, emphasizing that a black belt should signify mastery and competitive success in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, not just proficiency in an MMA context.
“You have to spend like hours, hours… Like five, six years to be black belt. They have to go some competition, World Championship. Instead like do something special to be black belt, to deserve this.”
Makhachev’s comments came after his victory over Charles Oliveira, a renowned BJJ black belt, where Makhachev’s grappling prowess was on full display. He further pointed out that some fighters receive black belts without ever having competed in Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, which he believes undermines the belt’s true value.
“But now, it’s a big deal to give some fighters a black belt. No, it’s not. It shouldn’t work like this, you know. I think people agree with me. If you’re a UFC champion, you cannot be a black belt in one day. No, it’s not working like that.”
“We Cancel, Brother”: Makhachev Mocks Dustin Poirier’s BJJ Black Belt
In a lighter, albeit pointed moment, Makhachev humorously referenced Dustin Poirier’s black belt status, saying, “We have to cancel, brother, many black belt because they make the Jiu-Jitsu look bad” during a media interaction.
This moment, widely shared on social media, highlighted Makhachev’s skepticism about the legitimacy of some BJJ black belts awarded to high-profile MMA fighters.
“Black belt, who give him [Poirier]? We have to check that now“- said Makhachev. “Because a lot of guys have black belt but I don’t know.”
He then questioned Poirier’s avoidance of initiating grappling with Oliveira: “Why are you scared to go with him on the ground? You’re a black belt.”
Despite his criticisms, Makhachev has been vocal in his admiration for fighters who have earned their real BJJ black belts through rigorous competition. He lauded fellow UFC champion Demetrious ‘Mighty Mouse’ Johnson saying “You are the real black belt. Of course. 100%.”
Makhachev’s comments have sparked diverse reactions within the martial arts community. Some support his call for stricter standards, arguing that the BJJ black belt should remain a symbol of elite skill and dedication.
Others believe that the evolving nature of MMA warrants a more flexible approach to awarding belts, recognizing the unique challenges faced by fighters who train across multiple disciplines.
The Great Fake BJJ Black Belts Debate
As the conversation around BJJ black belts in MMA continues, Makhachev’s voice adds a compelling perspective to the ongoing debate. Whether his call for stricter criteria will lead to changes within the martial arts community remains to be seen. Fake BJJ black belts have been a problem in the community, albeit from a different perspective.
For now, fans and fighters alike are left to ponder the true meaning of a BJJ black belt and its place in the ever-evolving world of combat sports.
What are your thoughts on Islam Makhachev’s critique of BJJ black belt standards?
