UK rapper Tinie Tempah has added another impressive accolade to his resume a while ago– a gold medal at the English Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Open. The 35-year-old, whose real name is Patrick Chukwuemeka Okugwu, has been honing his skills on the mats for years and recently showcased his dedication by defeating his opponent 4-0 on points to claim the title in the ‘Master 1 Blue Belt Lightweight Division’. He’s since gone on to compete in BJJ again several days ago.
Tempah’s win then was met with congratulations from a host of high-profile figures, including UFC superstar Conor McGregor and renowned BJJ black belt Bobby Rich, who works as a personal trainer for David Beckham.
Tempah, who holds a blue belt in the sport, has previously revealed that he trains at an exclusive BJJ club where he shares the mats with none other than Tom Hardy, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in films like “Venom” and “The Revenant.”
When asked about the prospect of a competitive bout against Hardy, Tempah expressed confidence in his abilities, stating that he would be the one to put his money on.
“If it was for a good cause, then why not? If he is up for it, I am,” Tempah told The Metro. “And I have to say I would win.”
Besides competing in the BJJ England Open, he competed in the REORG 2024 Charity tournament just a couple of days ago and won a gold in the Nogi division.
He received praise from fellow musicians, former Manchester United star Patrice Evra as well as BJJ celebs.
The REORG Open 2024 was a Jiu-jitsu and Parajiu-jitsu championship open to participants of all abilities and disabilities. Hosted at the University of East London’s Docklands Campus, the event supports the REORG Charity, which aids military personnel, veterans, and emergency service workers dealing with serious injuries, PTSD, or depression.
