BJ Penn - Background

BJ Penn had modest beginnings growing up in Hilo Hawaii. What some of you may not know is that his real name is Jay Dee Penn. He was born on December 13th, 1978 and at the age of seventeen began his MMA training. Starting out in Brazilian Jujitsu BJ soon became very well versed in the art going on to study under the legendary Ralph Gracie in 1997. After achieving his black belt in 2000 he went on to become the first non Brazilian to win a gold medal in the black belt division of the Mundial World Championships in Rio De Janiero. BJ Penn hold a record of 12 wins, most notable was his win in UFC 46 back in 2004 where he submitted the hugely favourite Matt Hughes with a rear naked choke hold four minutes into the first round. BJ Penn also holds 1 draw and 4 losses and is one of my favourite fighters as he is can fight just as well on the ground as he can on his feet. BJ Penn is one of the most exciting fighters out there and has and will continue to enjoy success from mixed martial arts.