While a highly anticipated octagon clash between Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk never came to fruition, there remains a possibility of seeing Zuckerberg involved with the UFC, albeit in a different format.
This Wednesday, the UFC initiates a new chapter with the launch of UFC BJJ 1, marking its dedicated foray into the realm of competitive grappling. Although the UFC has previously hosted Fight Pass Invitational events, UFC BJJ 1 is set to crown champions across three weight categories—bantamweight, lightweight, and welterweight—signaling an intensive effort to establish dominance in the grappling world, similar to its impact on MMA.
UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the organization`s ambition to facilitate the most significant grappling matches possible. He articulated goals of educating the public about jiu-jitsu, highlighting its practitioners, and bringing greater organization to the sport. White noted that while jiu-jitsu currently features numerous tournaments globally, some involving substantial prize money, the UFC aims to provide a centralized platform. Here, athletes widely regarded as among the world`s best can compete for a recognized `UFC world title`, with rankings and a structured system put in place.
However, White envisions UFC BJJ as more than solely a platform for elite grapplers. He is also open to hosting high-profile matches featuring competitors who may not be professional athletes.
White revealed that many individuals from other fields, including actors and athletes, actively train and participate in jiu-jitsu tournaments. He specifically mentioned Mark Zuckerberg, Mario Lopez, and Tom Hardy as examples, suggesting that “anyone” could potentially compete in UFC BJJ.
Reflecting on the past, White famously attempted to organize an MMA bout between Zuckerberg and Elon Musk during their public spat. While that never materialized beyond a commemorative T-shirt, White did secure a position on the board of Zuckerberg’s company, Meta. Consequently, White mentioned he and Zuckerberg frequently discuss combat sports and that he would enthusiastically welcome the Meta founder to compete in the UFC`s grappling venture.
He stated that if Mark Zuckerberg continues his training and participation in competition, he could “100 percent” come and compete in UFC BJJ. White added that many other well-known figures, like Tom Hardy and Mario Lopez, are also skilled jiu-jitsu practitioners whom the public might not be aware of.
From a different perspective, the notion of a grappling match between Zuckerberg and Musk seems far more logical than an MMA fight. Such an event could genuinely serve as a significant boost for UFC BJJ as the promotion seeks to build its brand.
