A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach has issued a public apology following a heated mat-side confrontation at the IBJJF No-Gi World Championships on December 13, admitting that his behavior fell far below the standards expected of someone in a coaching role.
Jeff Haddad released a formal statement to the IBJJF taking full responsibility for a physical altercation that occurred during the event, acknowledging that he failed to act with the composure and restraint required of a coach—especially on the sport’s biggest stage.
“I am a coach, and I did not carry myself as such,” Haddad wrote.
“I carried myself as an irresponsible adult who did not control his actions. I deeply regret what I did and take full responsibility.”
What Happened Mat Side
The incident reportedly took place near Mat 20, where tensions between coaches escalated following a match involving one of Haddad’s athletes. According to Haddad, another coach directed taunts toward his competitor—a 16-year-old athlete—after the loss.
Haddad emphasized that, regardless of the provocation, his response was completely unjustified.
“Taunting an athlete after a loss is not grounds to push someone. There are no grounds for what I did.”
In a follow-up statement, he provided additional context while making it clear that it did not excuse his behavior.
“While there is absolutely no excuse for my actions, one of the coaches was taunting my athlete, who is 16, and said several things mat side.”
“The Worst Moment of My Career”
Haddad described the altercation as the lowest point of his coaching career, made worse by the fact that it happened at No-Gi Worlds, with cameras capturing the incident in front of the entire community.
He stated that he wrote his apology while sitting outside the venue, reflecting on the damage done—not just to himself, but to his team and the sport as a whole.
“My team is disappointed in me. I am disappointed in myself. I know everyone who witnessed this is disappointed as well.”
He acknowledged that he failed to properly represent his academy, his athletes, and the IBJJF, noting that the correct response would have been to remain silent and allow the competition to continue uninterrupted.
“This is exactly what I would have told anyone else to do—but I didn’t listen to my own advice.”
Accepting the Consequences
In his statement, Haddad also recognized the role the IBJJF plays in providing a professional platform for athletes and coaches worldwide, praising the organization for consistently running high-level events.
He made it clear that he understands such behavior cannot be tolerated and stated that he will accept whatever disciplinary action the IBJJF decides to impose.
“I will never make this mistake again. My deepest apologies.”
Haddad concluded by stressing that he is not asking for forgiveness, but rather publicly and privately accepting accountability for his actions.
At the time of writing, the IBJJF has not yet announced any official sanctions, though a suspension or ban from future events is widely expected.
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