Ocean County Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu owner Tom DeBlass has nothing but respect for Gracie Barra Northridge coach and one of the best competitors in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Romulo Barral.
Barral has gotten some criticism in the jiu-jitsu community for his refusal to tap to a footlock at the IBJJF World Championships. Some ridiculed the multiple time IBJJF Champion as trying to be a “tough guy.”
DeBlass thinks these people don’t know what they’re talking about, as he revealed in a recent Facebook post:
Respect the legend that is Romulo Barral. I see many people saying that Romulo was wrong for not tapping.
Let me break it down for you. Romulo did not tap to be a tough guy, Romulo did not tap because his desire to win and succeed was stronger than his fear of getting his foot broke.
The match was tied, and should he of gotten the ref decision he would have won his 6th world title closing with his student.
I seem Romulo get popped bad in 2007 ADCC, only to come back a few years later and win.
99% of the world will never accomplish the things Romulo has therefore you can never understand his thought process. Respect him.
Respect the legend that is Romulo Barral. I see many people saying that Romulo was wrong for not tapping.Let me break…
Posted by Tom DeBlass on Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Professor Barral appreciated the support and responded to the post:
Thanks Tom a lot people didn’t understand the circumstances of the match . But honest I wouldn’t change anything . I could have roll to defend the toe hold , but would have give him 2 points so I decide to take it, the score board I was win at moment . And u are right i was hope to win to have chance to close out with felipe . But the good thing is real always recognizes real . Thx for the post brother
What do you think of Tom DeBlass’ post? Should Romulo Barral have tapped, or is a desire to succeed worth more than an injury?
