Pat Downey went through IBJJF No-Gi Worlds the way Jason Voorhees went through Camp Crystal Lake, leaving nothing but bodies in his wake. In fact, the former Bellator bruiser and NCAA Division I All-American out of Iowa State blew through his first four matches without conceding a single point.
That’s when the sh*t hit the proverbial fan.
Downey submitted Shamil Murtazaliev to complete the blue belt sweep at 5-0, but his post-match shenanigans — which Downey later admitted was an “excessive celebration” — led to words being exchanged on both sides; and eventually, hands being thrown. Downey was disqualified and lost his gold medal in the process.
Murtazaliev was slapped with a two-year ban for starting the brawl.
“I apologized to my opponent’s coach for my excessive celebration,” Downey wrote on Instagram. “I was just so proud and excited over my dominant performances that I wanted to let out some emotion after winning by first BJJ world title in such dominant fashion. I never conceded a single point or even gave up an advantage the entire tournament. my work is working. I’m just getting started. Shoutout to my all my coaches, friends, family and sponsors. This is the last time I’ll address and give attention to this situation.”
Here’s an alternate angle:
For complete IBJJF No-Gi Worlds results and highlights click here.
“[F*ck] the IBJJF for not giving me my GOLD medal that I earned by submitting and outscoring EVERY opponent,” Downey added. “I hope y’all enjoyed the PD3 show because i promise this is the last time this federation will ever get to profit off of my performance. Any promotions that are not softer than baby sh*t feel free to hit my line. Competing is my favorite thing in the world. I’m the best blue belt on [earth].”
Despite the kerfuffle, Downey, 32, was later promoted to purple belt.