Shortly after the panic spread across the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community, an update appeared from Tom DeBlass’s girlfriend Danielle clarifying that DeBlass was in fact safe.

Danielle wrote on Instagram:

Tom is perfectly ok and is currently unaware of any posts that were made, due to the fact he doesn’t have service and is probably currently trying to catch up on a lack of sleep.

Thank you for everyone who cares deeply about his well being and I’m so sorry about that ❤️🙏

According to her message, DeBlass was simply traveling and did not have phone service during the flight, which explains why he had not responded while the rumors were spreading.

Shortly after Danielle’s clarification, Gordon Ryan also posted a follow up message attempting to explain the situation.

Ryan wrote:

Sorry guys. Tom hacked my phone. We’re alive.

The explanation only added to the confusion and frustration within the grappling community.

A Joke That Crossed the Line

Announcing someone’s death to hundreds of thousands of followers is not a prank. It is not edgy humor. It is reckless.

Within hours the post had triggered panic across the entire Brazilian Jiu Jitsu world. Students, friends, and fellow athletes believed that a respected coach had died in a plane crash.

For a sport that constantly talks about respect, loyalty, and brotherhood, the situation raised serious questions about judgment and maturity.

Gordon Ryan is widely regarded as one of the greatest competitive grapplers in history. But being a champion on the mat does not excuse behavior like this.

Making a joke about the death of a teammate and mentor is not only childish but deeply irresponsible.

If this was meant to be humor, it reveals a lot about the mindset of someone willing to create panic and emotional distress simply for attention or shock value.

In the end the good news is that Tom DeBlass is safe. The unnecessary panic that spread throughout the community could have easily been avoided.

Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents

💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win? 💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers? It’s not your age. It’s your strategy. If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you. 🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:

Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu

Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.

Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.