Brazilian jiu-jitsu icon Renzo Gracie is among a lineup of combat sports athletes expected to take part in a partnership between the UFC and the FBI. It is a two-day seminar set for March 15–16 at the FBI Special Agent Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
According to sources, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the collaboration, announcing that world-class UFC athletes will work directly with academy students and senior FBI personnel from around the globe.
The program is designed to expose agents to UFC training methodologies, technical combat skills, and tactical approaches used by some of the most accomplished athletes in professional combat sports.
“I’m thrilled to announce this historic seminar between the FBI and the UFC at Quantico,” Patel said. He added, “This is a tremendous opportunity for our FBI agents to learn and train with some of the greatest athletes on earth, helping the world’s premier law enforcement agency be even better prepared to protect the American people.”
Joining Gracie on the mat will be a roster of accomplished UFC names, including Justin Gaethje, Jorge Masvidal, Chris Weidman, Claudia Gadelha, Michael Chandler, and Manel Kape.
The seeds of this collaboration were planted not long after Patel stepped into the director’s chair, when he floated the concept during a teleconference with leaders from all 55 of the FBI’s field offices.
Patel was generous in his praise of UFC CEO Dana White, who has long been vocal in his support for American institutions and leadership. “Dana White has changed the game in the mixed martial arts industry and we’re extremely honored to be partnered with him, the professionals, and the UFC,” Patel said. “We are grateful for their shared love of our nation, so that we can better defend her.”
White, whose relationship with the political world has been well documented, including a speaking appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention and presence at the 2025 victory rally for President Donald Trump, was equally enthusiastic about the opportunity.
Trump and White have also reportedly discussed hosting a UFC event at the White House to mark the president’s birthday.
“I have tremendous respect for the FBI and the work they do every day to protect this country,” White said. “It’s an incredible opportunity for our athletes…and we’re proud to support the FBI in strengthening their defense techniques.”
According to sources, Renzo Gracie carries a frequently controversial public profile. Over the years, the MMA and BJJ veteran has developed a reputation for making controversial statements online.
Back in 2012, Gracie shared a quote from a controversial leader on Twitter. When the post resurfaced years later and drew criticism, he defended sharing it, saying, “I love the quote,” while claiming he had not known who the leader was at the time.
Additionally, he has maintained close ties with polarizing political figures, most notably former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro.
Renzo also has a checkered past and has directed remarks toward international leaders. In one widely shared video, Gracie lashed out at French president Emmanuel Macron, telling him to “come over here” so he could grab him “by the neck.”
