UFC star Bryce Mitchell addressed a question about the state of jiu-jitsu in a recent episode of his podcast ArkanSanity, offering his perspective on what he sees as problematic trends in the martial art’s teaching and practice.
During an “Ask Me Anything” segment, a viewer named Larry Bird posed a question about whether jiu-jitsu had become “too g*y nowadays.”
Mitchell acknowledged that the martial art has indeed been affected to some extent, pointing to specific practices he considers red flags.
“To some extent it has been,” Mitchell responded. “And some of these professors are teaching g*yness.”
The Arkansas native identified particular techniques as indicators of what he called “g*y jiu-jitsu stuff.” His primary concern centers on instructors who teach butt scooting as a first option in combat situations. Butt scooting refers to a ground technique where practitioners sit and move across the mat using their hips.
“Number one thing is if they’re teaching you your first option in a match is to sit on your butt and scoot at the opponent,” Mitchell explained. “If they’re teaching this butt scooting, they’re probably g*y.”
Mitchell clarified his own relationship with the technique, noting that while he knows how to perform it, he only employs it under specific circumstances.
“I do know how to butt scoot, but here’s the thing. I’m only going to butt scoot if I get knocked loopy,” he said. “You won’t ever see me in a match coming out trying to butt scoot. If I’m butt scooting, I’m hurting.”
The UFC star emphasized that the technique represents a defensive position rather than an offensive strategy in his approach to combat. “I’m swinging for my life if I’m butt scooting,” Mitchell added. “So don’t criticize me if you see me butt scooting. It’s cuz I’m trying to get up.”
Despite his concerns about certain teaching methods, Mitchell offered reassurance that jiu-jitsu itself remains legitimate when practiced properly. His advice focused on finding quality instruction and training partners.
“Larry Bird, once again, get you a legit coach. Have you some legit teammates and don’t do none of that g*y stuff,” Mitchell advised. “It’s only g*y if you make it g*y. Jiu-jitsu is cool. It’s straight, brother.”
