Baron Corbin wins gold medal in jiu-jitsu tournament after WWE departure

Baron Corbin claimed a gold medal at the 2024 IBJJF Tampa International Open Tournament, marking a successful transition into competitive martial arts following his WWE exit. The former wrestler secured the victory in the Master 2 Open Division after an earlier silver medal performance.

Competing at the Florida event, Corbin advanced through multiple rounds to reach the gold medal match. His path to victory included wins over Fi Li in the quarterfinals and Bradley Curtis in the semifinals, before defeating Diogo Rodrigues Ponciano Freitas in the final.

Earlier in the day, Corbin earned silver in the Master 2 Ultra Heavy Division, falling to Franck Alphonse in the championship match. Reflecting on his accomplishments, Corbin took to X to share his excitement.

“Just when I thought today sucked, I came back and totally redeemed myself haha. GOLD in absolute,” Corbin wrote.

Just when I thought today sucked I came back and totally redeemed myself haha. GOLD in absolute pic.twitter.com/tWwMC4fSTg

— Tom (@TomPestock) November 24, 2024

Florida training facility shapes Corbin’s martial arts journey

Now competing under his real name, Tom Pestock, Corbin has been developing his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills at Rudos BJJ gym in Florida.

The facility has become a notable training ground for professional wrestlers, hosting names like Matt Riddle, Shayna Baszler, IYO SKY, and Shinsuke Nakamura among others.