The UFC just took another huge step into the grappling world with another big signing for the UFC Fight Pass Invitational.
One of the most decorated BJJ competitors in the world, Ffion Davies, has exclusively signed with Dana White’s new grappling project.
Rumors have been swirling after it was learned that Mikey Musumeci and Gordon Ryan would be taking part in some sort of BJJ reality TV-style show with the UFC.
Davis signs after completing a great contract with Polaris and is set for a highly anticipated event at Polaris 32 where she will be the captain for Team Europe. Her opponent hasn’t been named yet but but if the UFC has signed her we can anticipate another big signing.
Ffion Davies submits Mackenzie Dern 🤯🤯🤯 pic.twitter.com/a8p75wosCZ
— Bteamjj (@bteamjj) August 18, 2024
One name stands out as the most likely matchup: Adele Fornarino. Davies and Fornarino were originally set to face off in the main event of UFC Fight Pass Invitational 10, but an injury forced Davies to withdraw. Their history dates back to ADCC 2022, where Davies emerged victorious in their opening-round clash.
Here’s what we know, Dana wants to make a splash and he’s not going to hold back.
Another idea that many haven’t discussed is seeing UFC stars not in contention or no longer fighting matching up with these BJJ stars.
For example, none of us want to watch Chris Weidman smash his leg open again but it would be great to watch in high level BJJ matches.
Also, Miesha Tate has a make-or-break fight coming up, and she isn’t getting any younger. But she is a fantastic grappler and a fan favorite and it would be great for her to be part of the BJJ league.
“You don’t know exactly where you’re going until the movement happens because you can’t anticipate what is going to happen. Be relaxed and connected with the variations. Flow with the go.” – Rickson Gracie#Grappling #BJJgirls #MMAtraining #UFC276 pic.twitter.com/f7NF4tn2QN
— Miesha Tate (@MieshaTate) May 17, 2022
Also, I don’t think it will happen because there’s so much bad blood but how amazing would be if Demetrious Johnson joined the grappling league?
🚨 B-Team Training VID IS LIVE! 🚨
Was an honor training in Austin, Texas with the Natty King @nickrod247 and the rest of the @bteamjj squad @jayrod2.0 @jdawgbjj think @craigjonesbjj was in Colombia with Gabi.
🚨 FULL VIDEO ON MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL!! 🚨#MightyJourney pic.twitter.com/AE6wnZimGX
— Demetrious Johnson (@MightyMouse) March 17, 2025
I know the BJJ world is looking inward to see who will be signed but what about a mix of UFC fan favorite like Nate Diaz going up against some of the best grapplers in the world.
Not only that if Dana wants to bring awarness to a new BJJ league to the general public the Ruotolo brothers and others aren’t going to cut it. You need star power and most people don’t know who Gordon Ryan is let alone Craig Jones. But fight fans do know who Demetrious Johnson and would love to see a match with Mikey.
