Sean Lafferty – “As an experienced MMA veteran, many tend to view BJJ as a weaker sport, you went in a different direction, what led to this, anything in particular?”
Tom DeBlass – “For me, I love Jiu-Jitsu far more than I did MMA. I fought MMA because my coach (Ricardo) and his coach (Renzo) fought it. I was young enough to do it and had the talent to do it, there’s less trash talk, there tends to be a lighter feel as you get on well with your opponent, even in situations when you lose you keep a healthy relationship. I felt like I could touch more people through Jiu-Jitsu than I could MMA and after I had my daughter I just didn’t want to hurt anyone anymore, I just wanted to train Jiu-Jitsu, coach Jiu-Jitsu and train in Jiu-Jitsu.”
Sean Lafferty – “As one of the top coaches in the World, is there anything that you believe some coaches should try and adapt into their classes, as you train with one of the best and most revolutionary teams in BJJ history?”
Tom DeBlass – “I think Jiu-Jitsu instructors need to understand that everyone who comes through your doors need equal attention. They have to have their needs met, some want to be part of something, some want to lose weight and some will want to compete. You have to create an environment that is welcoming to all shapes, sizes, race, genders, that’s my biggest thing with Jiu-Jitsu academies, you have to be welcoming and give equal attention to people at all stages.”
Sean Lafferty – “With ADCC 2019 having happened recently, has there been any significant change in training with the competition nearing for the elite guys?”
Tom DeBlass – “I was reffing at the show, I have retired from competing at ADCC and I help run ADCC North America, but in training we’ve been training for the ruleset, so the rounds are formed and operated like in the format of ADCC so that we are fully up to code on the rule set and how to grapple to the ruleset. Understanding the points, it’s very wrestling orientated and very back taking orientated because the point system is much different.”
Sean Lafferty – “Thanks man, is there anything you’re wishing to address for the readers, any advice or anything you’d want others to know about training, gym etiquette or what’s next for you?”
Tom DeBlass – “I appreciate the support, I do my best to serve and help people. I keep hoping that I can grow my influence, not just in Jiu-Jitsu but just in the World. I appreciate everyone and I appreciate you, my friend.”
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