Tom DeBlass has shown terrific leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing lockdown. The New Jersey native and owner of Ocean County Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a 3rd-degree Black belt under Ricardo Almeida. DeBlass is a highly decorated Jiu-Jitsu competitor and coach, winning the ADCC North American trials three times.

DeBlass last fought back in 2013 when he knocked out Jason Lambert at Bellator 108. Before his stint in Bellator, DeBlass went 0-2 in the UFC, losing both fights by decision. In his second fight for the promotion, DeBlass dropped down to middleweight, losing a unanimous decision to Riki Fukuda at UFC on Fuel TV: Franklin vs. Le in 2012.

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After his stint in the UFC, DeBlass abruptly retired, focusing his energy on family, his academy, and the success of his students. His most notable students are Garry Tonon, one of the most exciting grapplers in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Tonon (5-0) is currently undefeated in ONE Championship, along with Gordan Ryan the reigning ADCC Absolute Champion, and current pound-for-pound best no-gi grappler on the planet.

DeBlass’s retirement was short-lived, returning to the cage less than a year after leaving the UFC, earning a second-round TKO (doctor stoppage) over Carlos Brooks at Bellator 95. In a recent post on Facebook, Deblass said:

“Lots of questions about my first fight back, no one is set and no date is set. I’d love to fight a heavyweight BJJ world champion or ADCC champion though. Perhaps some world-class BJJ guys want to test the waters in MMA, I’d gladly dance with you. Much love to everyone.”

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