Actor Tom Hardy has been using his massive social media platform to amplify the artistic aspirations of a fellow Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.
The “Venom” star who boasts 11.3 million Instagram followers recently shared music from Daniel Fornasa a folk musician and jiu-jitsu instructor who describes himself as “a real rebel” and “folk troubadour.” Hardy posted Fornasa’s song “Don’t Be Scared to Be Vulnerable” multiple times to his Instagram story this past week providing invaluable exposure to the independent artist.
Fornasa’s self-produced music video showcases him performing while wearing a blue Shoyoroll gi and singing. The release titled “Dojo Days Vol 1” represents the intersection of two passions both men share: martial arts and creative expression.
This gesture of support reflects Hardy’s well-documented commitment to the jiu-jitsu community. The 47-year-old actor who began training at age 40 has become a respected figure in BJJ circles recently earning confirmation of his legitimate purple belt status from Tom DeBlass, Craig Jones and several other respected competitors.
DeBlass has been effusive in his praise of Hardy’s dedication noting the actor’s exceptional work ethic and genuine passion for the sport.
“First off, Tom is an exceptional student on the mats. He shows up, he drills 100% of the time and truly is obsessed with learning.”
He added that Hardy “trains like a man who has experienced a lot in life and he has zero fear of looking bad.”
Hardy’s commitment to jiu-jitsu has come at a physical cost—he has undergone two knee surgeries related to his training. Yet he maintains a rigorous schedule training two to three times weekly even while filming and volunteers with children’s classes at his academy.
The actor has competed in tournaments in Wolverhampton and Milton Keynes earning gold medals at both events in 2022. One opponent described him as “probably the toughest competitor I’ve ever had — he certainly lived up to his Bane character, that’s for sure.”
For Hardy the martial art has become transformative.
“It gives me a level of honest confidence.”
He explained that BJJ has evolved into a meditative practice rather than purely competitive pursuit.
His willingness to promote Fornasa’s music demonstrates how the bonds formed on the training mats extend into genuine friendship and mutual support.
View this post on Instagram
