Retired submission grappler and mixed martial artist, Dillon Danis has garnered attention not only for his accomplishments in martial arts but also for the controversies surrounding his career.
I'm done with fighting. I'm retired. Love you all.
— Dillon Danis (@dillondanis) November 15, 2023
This in-depth Fan Arch piece looks into Dillon Danis's background, career, notable achievements, and significant incidents or controversies that have occurred throughout his journey.
Background and Early Life
Dillon Danis was born on August 22, 1993, in Parsippany–Troy Hills, New Jersey, to a Spanish-Honduran mother and Armenian father.
His interest in combat sports began at a young age when he started wrestling as a freshman in high school. Despite his initial physical limitations, Danis persevered and later transitioned to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, following a street fight where he successfully executed a chokehold.
His dedication to training led him to the renowned Marcelo Garcia's academy in New York, where he eventually earned his black belt at the age of 21.
Martial Arts Career
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Danis's journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu saw him achieve notable success in various competitions, including winning the Pan Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship and earning multiple gold medals at national and international events under the guidance of Marcelo Garcia.
Mixed Martial Arts
Danis made his mixed martial arts debut at Bellator 198, securing a victory against Kyle Walker via a toe hold in the first round. He continued his winning streak at Bellator 222, where he defeated Max Humphreys with an armbar in the first round.
Notable Achievements
- Pan Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championship: Winner
- IBJJF Pan American No-Gi Championships: Bronze medalist
- IBJJF World Champion
- UAEJJF Abu Dhabi World Pro Champion
- IBJJF Boca Raton Open Champion
Controversies and Incidents
UFC 229 Melee
One of the most publicized incidents involving Danis occurred at UFC 229, where he was involved in a melee with Khabib Nurmagomedov after the latter's victory over Conor McGregor.
He was fined $7,500 and suspended for 7 months following this incident. Longtime UFC commentator Joe Rogan claimed that Danis had provoked Nurmagomedov, which led to the altercation.
New Jersey Arrest
In September 2021, Danis was arrested after an altercation with a bouncer outside a nightclub in New Jersey. He claimed that the nightclub staff were at fault and that he was released by officers after approximately twenty minutes.
ADCC PEDs Accusations
In October 2021, he accused UFC veteran Jake Shields of offering him PEDs prior to the 2017 ADCC Submission Fighting World Championship.
UFC 268 Altercation
Danis was removed from the building at UFC 268 after getting into an altercation with MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz, where he was slapped by Abdelaziz.
Endorsement of Cryptocurrency Scams
Danis was accused of accepting cash to promote cryptocurrency scams by a well-known YouTuber In February 2023.
Other Incidents
The 30-year-old has also faced criticism for misbehaving at a restaurant in Seaside Heights, New Jersey, and for his involvement in disputes with other MMA figures, resulting in his ban from all UFC events.
Looking back, Dillon Danis's career, marked by both achievements and controversies, has captured the attention of martial arts fans and the public alike.
While his accomplishments in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts are commendable, the controversies surrounding his behavior have also shaped his public image.
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