Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend Marcio Cruz, known as "Pe de Pano," has accused the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) of match-fixing during major tournaments.
He claims officials are involved in illicit betting activities, manipulating match outcomes by granting advantages or penalties. Cruz points to Pedro Arruda,the current head referee coordinator for IBJJF events, alleging favoritism towards his team. Cruz claims to have messages showing Arruda instructing a referee how to influence penalties during events like the No-Gi World Championships.
They are betting cash and then going in to the referee. Pedro Arruda also commented several times in this group on how to make a deal. In the first 2 minutes you have to give an advantage, then you get an illegal grip…no one can say anything.
Despite Cruz's evidence, the IBJJF has not responded yet. Cruz, an eight-time world and Pan-Am champion from 2000-2005, seeks to expose corruption within the sport, but remains pessimistic about the IBJJF’s attitude
