Tom DeBlass was not having it.
The renowned BJJ black belt took to social media to set the record straight, defending Hardy’s promotion with a detailed timeline that silenced doubters. According to DeBlass, Hardy has been training since 2017, making him eligible for black belt consideration based purely on time invested.
“He was a purple belt for 3 years. The dude trains 5 days a week sometimes, even when traveling for filming.”
Hardy, now 48, received his brown belt from Sonny Weston, head instructor at SWBJJ Horsham BJJ, during a recent DeBlass seminar. The promotion represents nearly eight years of consistent dedication to the martial art, a journey that began in 2018 at a West London boxing club when Hardy first encountered people grappling in their gis.
His then coach Carlos Santos recalled that first encounter, noting Hardy’s immediate connection to the art despite initial physical limitations.
“He wants to enjoy the art like a normal person. “
What distinguishes Hardy from other celebrities who dabble in martial arts is his willingness to compete publicly and attend seminars and classes that aren’t VIP only. In 2022, he entered tournaments in Wolverhampton and Milton Keynes at blue belt level, winning gold at both events. One competitor described him as:
“Probably the toughest competitor I have ever had, he certainly lived up to his Bane character.”
Santos praised Hardy’s approach to training, noting the actor’s preference for authenticity over privilege.
“He always participates in group classes too. I admire that about him. Typically, famous individuals prefer private lessons. While he initially started with those to understand the art, he eventually requested to join the group classes and continued training afterward.”
The journey has come with physical sacrifices. Hardy has undergone two knee surgeries related to his BJJ training, one from a sweep and another from a meniscus tear. Despite these setbacks, he maintains his training schedule, dropping to two or three sessions weekly during filming and increasing to five when not on set.
DeBlass addressed critics directly, questioning why anyone would doubt Hardy’s credentials.
“You think I’d fly to London to support someones journey if they were a fra ud? I barely have enough time in the week, let alone to support bullsh*t. My reputation is more important than any relationship I may forge.”
The black belt emphasized that Hardy earned his promotion legitimately.
“He is a 48 year old man that doesn’t turn down a roll.”
Hardy has trained with elite practitioners including Renzo Gracie, Roger Gracie, John Danaher and members of the Daisy Fresh team. He also serves as head ambassador for REORG charity, which provides jiu-jitsu training to military veterans and first responders.
Years ago, Hardy described BJJ as providing honest confidence and a meditative escape from his demanding career.
“Now it’s more of a meditation or relaxing… I have no competitive spirit. I don’t need to win, I don’t care… I always get beaten, but that’s okay.”
That humility, combined with consistent competition results and nearly a decade of training, formed the foundation of his brown belt promotion.
