Ocean County Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu owner Tom DeBlass is everything a martial artist should be. He’s a hulk of man who not only takes pride in himself, but in his students.
And why shouldn’t he? He can boast grappling champions like Garry Tonon as one of the men he had the honor to promote to black belt.
But boast he won’t, as Professor DeBlass is not only humble before God, but humble in the face of his opponents, especially when those opponents are men like the legendary multiple-time gold medalist, Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu.
Cyborg and DeBlass are set to lock horns at an upcoming Grappling Pro event. The date for the event has not been released yet.
This won’t mark the first time DeBlass and Abreu go at it. Back in 2009, the two men met on the mats at ADCC, where Cyborg took the win:
https://www.facebook.com/tdeblass/posts/10158876389095627
The Jiu-Jitsu Times had the chance to talk to Professor Tom DeBlass about his last match against Abreu and his chance to avenge his loss at Grappling Pro.
Here is what he had to say.
Jiu-Jitsu Times: You lost to Cyborg back in 2009. What do you think went wrong for you in that fight, if anything?
Tom DeBlass: Um it was a 0-0 match and he won by a negative 1. To be honest there was some mix up in the match. During the match they had Cyborg scored a negative 1 and not me, then it seemed to be switched. He went on to take second that ADCC and that loss haunted me for a few years. However I recently watched it again and I will say he was the aggressor and he deserved the victory. It was 0-0, but he deserved the victory then.
JJT: Do you think you’re going to be more aggressive in this match than you were in the last?
TD: LOL! Think? I know!
JJT: Of course! Hope you didn’t think that was a dumb question.
TD: Wasn’t a dumb question. Include it.
JJT: Will do! Can you tell our readers what usually goes through your head moments before you compete, especially at a big competition? Are you nervous, excited, pumped, or maybe some combination of all three?
TD: I’m not too nervous. I simply ask God to give me the ability to compete the best I ever did. I know if I show up being the best version of me, I can best any man on the Earth without the gi. Gi, no. No gi, yes. I have cardio for days, strength, technique, heart, and tenacity that can carry me through any match.
JJT: What advantages do you think you might have over Cyborg in this match? Him over you?
TD: I think I’d be arrogant to say I’d have any advantages. I’m simply honored to compete against such a legend.
JJT: Totally understandable. Okay, Professor, anything else you want to say about the fight to our readers? Any shout-outs?
TD: I want to thank everyone for their support. It means more than you know. I will continue to do my best to inspire everyone. This is just the beginning.
JJT: Thank you for your time, Professor.
Be sure to check out Professor Tom DeBlass’ Facebook and Instagram pages.
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