DJ Jackson, an 8-time Jiu-Jitsu World Champion, has been accused of allegedly stealing over $13,000 from multiple individuals who trusted him as a friend and mentor. However, Jackson has come forward to offer his side of the story and clear his name.
In a statement, Jackson explained that the allegations against him are completely false. He shared that a year and a half ago, he moved his family to Phuket, Thailand, to take a job as the Head MMA Coach at Southside MMA Thailand. However, the gym did not honor the promises they made during the contract negotiations, including providing him with a work permit and a livable wage.
Without a work permit, Jackson was forced to make frequent border runs, which resulted in having to pay bribes to immigration officials just to re-enter the country. Additionally, when he suffered a shoulder injury, the gym did not cover any of his medical expenses or provide him with the necessary rehabilitation support.
Jackson further revealed that he was only being paid $1,000 per month, which was significantly less than the minimum wage for a foreigner in Thailand, which is $1,300 per month. He agreed to this lower pay because the gym had promised him additional bonuses and a percentage of student fees, which never materialized.
Regarding the specific allegations of theft, Jackson explained that a friend had offered to lend him money for a visa application, but he had declined the offer and returned the money. He also clarified that he had helped a student hold $3,000 in his personal account as the student did not have a bank account, and he had later repaid the full amount.
Jackson expressed his frustration with the situation, stating that he had endured numerous struggles and hardships over the past two and a half years, including working for employers who promised work permits but never fulfilled their end of the agreement. He said that he should have returned to the United States much sooner, but he did not want to separate his family.
In conclusion, DJ Jackson has firmly denied the theft allegations and has stated that he is willing to resolve the issue with the individuals involved. He maintains that he did not steal any money and that the money that was lent to him will be repaid in full.
