Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend Gabi Garcia shared her experience with domestic abuse during her marriage, revealing a side of her story that was hidden behind her championship career.
Speaking on the Jits and Giggles Podcast, Garcia said the last three years were “the worst years in my life,” describing how she endured domestic violence that led to her losing over $7 million and fleeing her home with only her dog.
“I suffered domestic abuse from my ex-husband, and one day I woke up with police in my house. I had to pick up my things, and I only picked up my dog. He sold my house and I lost more than $7 million.”
The nine-time world champion explained how the abuse was tied to the manipulative dynamics of narcissistic relationships.
“I ended a relationship with a narcissist, and you don’t know—they cloud your judgment,”
she said, noting how her mother noticed changes in her behavior.
Garcia pointed out how abusers use manipulation tactics to shift blame onto their partners.
“He doesn’t speak English because he’s from Brazil, and it becomes your fault for what he’s going to do. They manipulate you, so be careful,”
she explained.
Despite her public image as a dominant competitor, Garcia admitted she kept the abuse private.
“Nobody knows this because the world has so many sad stories,”
she said, reflecting on how even with her platform, she felt silenced.
Her case echoes wider issues faced by women in combat sports. UFC strawweight contender Mackenzie Dern has also spoken about mistreatment from the father of her daughter, later being ordered to pay him spousal support—showing how legal systems can work against survivors.
Garcia is now channeling her story into advocacy through an upcoming documentary.
“Now they invited me for my documentary, and I’m going to use this to help other girls too, to give them a voice. Because if I have my voice and I suffered domestic abuse and nobody believed me…”
Her advice to others is clear:
“Be brave. Report to the police or get out. I know it’s hard, but we need to love ourselves before we love others. Don’t be shy. It’s not your fault.”
These revelations come shortly after Garcia lost her father, whom she described as her best friend. She says even the most painful moments can serve as lessons for others.
Garcia’s decision to speak publicly brings attention to domestic abuse in combat sports, an issue that remains underreported despite its reach. Her account, alongside voices like Dern’s, underscores how violence can affect people regardless of fame or success.
