BJJ World Champion Alleges Match-Fixing and Gambling Among Referees

^{Pictured: Marcio Cruz}

Marcio ‘Pe De Pano’ Cruz, a multiple-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion, has leveled serious accusations against referees and other officials of the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF). As reported by Jits Magazine, Cruz alleges that these officials are manipulating matches and placing bets.

Cruz stated, “They are betting money and then going in to referee”. He didn’t limit his accusations to the IBJJF referees in general but specifically pointed out Pedro Arruda, the head referee coordinator for IBJJF events. Cruz claims that Arruda shows favoritism towards certain referees who “take care of his interests”.

Cruz asserts that he possesses evidence, including screenshots and audio recordings, that show referees and IBJJF coordinators discussing ways to unfairly influence match outcomes by awarding advantages or penalties to specific athletes.

He has urged the IBJJF to take action against Arruda and has threatened to release more evidence after the upcoming World Championship if Arruda continues to coordinate referees.

Despite the gravity of these allegations, the IBJJF has not yet responded to Cruz’s claims.

This comes at a time when match-fixing has become a pressing issue in Brazil. Earlier reports suggested that the Brasileirão (a football championship) might be suspended due to an ongoing investigation into match-fixing.