Sun Jun 29 02:20:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Mikey Musumeci Makes History, Clinches Inaugural UFC BJJ Title**

LAS VEGAS, NV – Jiu-jitsu sensation Mikey “Darth Rigatoni” Musumeci etched his name into UFC history books on June 25th, securing the inaugural UFC BJJ Bantamweight Championship in a thrilling main event victory. The 28-year-old submission specialist defeated Rerisson Gabriel via heel hook in the third round, marking the first-ever main event win for the promotion’s burgeoning grappling venture, UFC BJJ.

The UFC, known for showcasing submission artists in MMA, is now making a significant push into the submission grappling world with UFC BJJ. The organization recently launched a reality TV series, “UFC BJJ: Road to the Title,” mirroring the format of “The Ultimate Fighter,” to discover and showcase emerging grappling talents. Musumeci served as a coach on the show before making his own highly anticipated debut.

Musumeci, a five-time IBJJF World Champion at black belt – and the first American to achieve more than one in the sport – expressed immense pride in headlining the historic event. He drew parallels to UFC 1 in 1993, where Royce Gracie introduced jiu-jitsu to a wider audience.

“This is just so cool. Looking back into history, this is UFC BJJ 1. Like Royce Gracie’s time, and I was the first main event on this card. It’s just such an honor,” Musumeci said in his post-fight interview.

Musumeci is motivated by growing jiu-jitsu and submission grappling. He believes the backing of the UFC provides a sustainable platform for growth, unlike other organizations that may come and go.

“I could’ve went to other organizations maybe and done different things, just to make a quick payday or things like that. But, I wanted to just focus on what would make our sport grow the most and sustainable,” he stated after his win.

UFC BJJ has announced a series of upcoming events on July 31st, October 2nd, and December 11th, promising continued excitement and development in the world of submission grappling.

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