The veteran martial artist says the extended period in quarantine allowed him to take a step back and reevaluate his career, which rekindled his passion for professional competition and led to his signing with the Singapore-based martial arts organization.
ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong announced that DeBlass would be joining ONE in a Facebook post on Monday, 18 May.
DeBlass is a multiple-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission grappling World Champion, and one of the grappling arts’ most highly-regarded teachers. He is a product of the Renzo Gracie-Ricardo Almeida lineage and has mentored several high-level grappling competitors, including Jen Allen Russell, Kyle Cranmer, and fifth-ranked ONE featherweight contender, Garry “The Lion Killer” Tonon.
DeBlass last competed in mixed martial arts nearly seven years ago. His official record stands at 9-2, which includes four victories by knockout and two by submission. Following stoppage wins over Carlos Brooks and Jason Lambert in 2013, DeBlass decided to put his professional career on the shelf to focus on developing his students at Ocean County Jiu Jitsu (OCJJ). Now, he cannot wait to return to action and make the most of his abilities.
When asked why he chose ONE Championship, DeBlass explained his thought process.
DeBlass is expected to join the heavyweight and light heavyweight ranks, which means match-ups with ONE Heavyweight World Champion Brandon “The Truth” Vera and ONE Light Heavyweight World Champion “The Burmese Python” Aung La N Sang could be on the cards if he can work his way to the top.
Though much is expected of him, the American grappling sensation is simply focused on taking one bout at a time and looking for victory each time he steps into the Circle.
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