A few years ago Rock legend Gene Simmons received a surprise that none of us could’ve predicted. He was presented an honorary Judo black belt by Teri Takemori and four time Olympian, Jason Morris (Ronda Rousey’s former coach).
Many of us were shocked by this because Simmons has no judo experience and has never openly expressed any interest in judo.
He was passing by New York for a promotional tour and was visited by Morris.
This is how it went down according to Judoinside:
Simmons was a gracious host to his New York fans by greeting them in the line outside the venue. During the meet and greet, Gene showed Jason some Judo performing Ippon seoi-nage and osoto-gari on him. Morris then presented Gene with the promotion and the duo had some laughs while Jason put the belt on Gene. Gene also impressively spoke a little Japanese to Teri Takemori. Along with the promotion which included an embroidered Black Belt and personalized certificate, Jason gave Gene personalized JMJC sweat tops for him and his wife Shannon Tweed.
However he’s not the only one. Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves was awarded his honorary black belt exactly a year ago.
Judo’s only three-time Olympic champion Nomura Tadahiro presented an honorary judo black belt to actor Keanu Reeves in Tokyo.
However unlike Simmons Reeves has some Judo and BJJ training:
