Ryan Bader has received an upgrade in jiu-jitsu credentials going into his Bellator 268 light heavyweight grand prix semifinal with Corey Anderson. Bader (28-6 MMA, 6-1 BMMA), who already owns a solid collection of belts stemming from his MMA career, has added a jiu-jitsu black belt to his decorated resume. Master Jair Lourenço Gurgel, who is a pupil of the great Andre Pederneiras, awarded Bader with his black belt on Friday after 15 years on the mat. Bader shared the news on social media and was rightfully proud of the achievement (via Instagram ): View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ryan Bader (@ryanbader) After 15 years I have received my black belt from @jairlourencokimura ! What an honor to receive it from a highly decorated black belt and most importantly a great person and team. also a ton of help from my man @triboletbeau Bader is the current Bellator heavyweight champion. He previously held the 205-pound strap, as well, but lost it to Vadim Nemkov at Bellator 244 in August 2020
The rest is here:
Bellator champion Ryan Bader awarded jiu-jitsu black belt ahead of grand prix semifinal – MMA Junkie