What the Launch of UFC’s BJJ League Means for the Future of Jiu-Jitsu
The Next Chapter of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Has Arrived
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is evolving and the UFC just made it official. This year, the UFC is launching its own professional grappling league: UFC Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This move isn’t just big it’s transformative. It signals that BJJ is no longer a niche pursuit. It’s a sport ready for the spotlight.
For us at Movement Art, it hits close to home. UFC BJJ’s debut event will be headlined by Mikey Musumeci, one of the most accomplished grapplers in history and our instructors, Danny Maira and Nick Salles, are both black belts under Mikey. His influence is woven into every class we teach and every technique we refine.
What Is UFC BJJ?
Launching during UFC International Fight Week (June 25, 2025), UFC BJJ will feature three championship title matches. The format will include a custom curved-wall grappling pit, designed to promote constant action, and an accompanying reality series called “Road to the Title”, with Mikey Musumeci and Rerisson Gabriel coaching two opposing teams.
UFC President Dana White has announced a $10–12 million investment into this league over the next year. The goal: to make Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu a mainstay for fans, not just fighters.
Why This League Changes Everything
1. BJJ Is Going Mainstream
With the UFC’s promotional muscle, more people than ever will discover the art of jiu-jitsu. This could be a turning point for the sport—similar to what The Ultimate Fighter did for MMA in the early 2000s.
2. Real Careers for Grapplers
Professional jiu-jitsu athletes have always faced challenges making a living. UFC BJJ offers real prize money, consistent exposure, and a potential career path for elite-level talent.
3. Rule Innovation That Pushes the Pace
The unique curved-wall arena and updated ruleset are designed to keep matches moving. This opens the door to a faster, more viewer-friendly version of the sport—without compromising its technical depth.
Why It Matters to You
This league doesn’t just represent the future of competitive BJJ, it reflects the values we live at Movement Art every day: progress, precision, and passion.
Mikey’s presence at the heart of UFC BJJ is a reminder of how far the art has come. And for anyone training at Movement Art, it’s a sign that you’re part of something much bigger. You’re learning the same principles, the same techniques, and the same systems that are shaping the global conversation around modern jiu-jitsu.
The Best Time to Start Is Now
Whether you want to compete or just improve, you’re training in the right place. Movement Art is led by instructors directly connected to the evolution of the sport. If you’ve been thinking about trying jiu-jitsu, now is the time.
✅ Beginner-friendly classes
✅ World-class instructors
✅ Supportive community
Your first class is free. Come see what it’s all about.