Gordon Ryan signs seven-figure deal with FloSports, largest contract in grappling history
FloSports announced a multi-fight, seven-figure deal with Gordon Ryan, the world’s top-ranked submission grappler, to compete in FloGrappling’s Tezos Who’s Number One (WNO) Series. FloGrappling created the competition in 2020 and it has quickly evolved into the premier no-gi jiu-jitsu event series in the world.
Ryan, the current WNO heavyweight champion, is a five-time ADCC world champion, IBJJF world No-Gi champion, and four-time Eddie Bravo Invitational champion. The submission grappler is coming off a victory on the main event of the UFC Fight Pass on December 15, defeating Nick Rodriguez in EBI OT via ride time, and will look to continue his momentum into FloGrappling’s WNO Series in 2023.
“This is a big step for all athletes of the sport,” Ryan said. “After signing a multi-fight contract of this magnitude, today marks the first day in history in which a jiu-jitsu competitor can live like a real athlete just from competing. Seven-figures without one private class, one seminar, or one instructional. We aren’t the NBA or the NFL, but we are getting there, and I won’t stop until we are. This is as good for all current and future athletes of the sport as it is for me.”
“At 27 years old, Gordon Ryan is already the best no-gi jiu-jitsu grappler in the world,” said Mark Floreani, FloSports’ Co-founder and CEO. “His participation in our WNO Series helps us create the biggest stage possible which will highlight male and female athletes from across the globe on a more consistent basis. We are committed to helping grow the sport for the fans and athletes. This requires an investment in terms of events, content, our digital platform and more.”
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