ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong got the surprise of a lifetime during the ONE 168: Denver broadcast on Prime Video. On a night that delivered incredible martial arts action from Denver, Colorado’s Ball Arena, Sityodtong was hyping up the remainder of the card when a special guest appeared. Renzo Gracie slid into frame to award Sityodtong his BJJ black belt.
“It is truly the honor of a lifetime to receive a black belt from you. I will forever cherish this extraordinary privilege. You and jiu-jitsu have completely changed my life,” Sityodtong wrote on Instagram.
ONE’s Chairman has been a lifelong martial artist, first training in Muay Thai. However, during his time in the United States, he took up the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Since then, he has dedicated himself to continual learning and incrementally improved day by day.
“When I first stepped into your school in 2005 while I was living in New York City, I had no idea that it would mark the beginning of the biggest adventure of my life. As you already know, both ONE and EVOLVE would never have been born without you. You inspire me to dream more, do more, and be more in life,” Sityodtong continued.
https://twitter.com/ONEChampionship/status/1832265711923712118
Sityodtong’s commitment to martial arts extends beyond just being a promoter. Being a martial artist while sitting as the CEO, Sityodtong has elevated the industry with ONE’s unique events featuring mixed martial arts, kickboxing, Muay Thai, and submission grappling. The life lessons taught from martial arts continue to help drive his personal and professional life.
“Through jiu-jitsu, I have learned not only how to fight, but more importantly how to live. I will continue to honor you and the Gracie name in everything I do. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart, Renzo,” Sityodtong said.
