Buddies Over Bullies: How Tom DeBlass and Evolve MMA are Grappling the Issue of Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a growing concern in schools around the world, and it’s one that Tom DeBlass is ready to grapple with.

DeBlass is a renowned figure in the world of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, first as a two-time IBJJF world champion, then as a mixed martial artist who compiled an 11-2 record as a grappling specialist, and finally as a sought-after trainer for future mat stars such as Garry Tonon. He is also the founder of Buddies Over Bullies (B.O.B.), which works to combat bullying in schools, of the in-person as well as online varieties. B.O.B. strives to be a program where children can learn the importance of self-defense, teamwork and respect, but DeBlass emphasizes the importance of parental oversight.

"Parents need to get involved with their children’s lives," the 41-year-old told Sherdog. “Many times, things are happening on social media that the parents don’t know about, and I don't think it’s a breach of privacy for parents to want to be involved in their child’s life regarding social media.”

B.O.B. focuses on teaching kids anti-bullying tactics that can be implemented when faced in tough situations. Children are made aware of guides and support aids they can reach out to, but also come away with BJJ fundamentals that could protect them.

“We are proud to be partnering with Tom DeBlass to spread the good work of Buddies Over Bullies. Child bullying is a real issue even here in Asia and in Singapore. If you’ve been bullied and would like to learn self-defense, please email [email protected] and we will review applications on a case-by-case basis,” said Wesley De Souza, Senior Vice President at Evolve MMA.

With branches in New Jersey, San Diego, Dallas and Las Vegas, B.O.B. has sustained steady growth. The non-profit has over 400 sponsoring gyms from around the world, but B.O.B’s latest partnership with Evolve MMA further expands that reach.

“I think being partnered with Evolve MMA is fantastic,” DeBlass said. “They are the biggest martial arts school in Asia. I love Evolve’s vision, and I love what they give back to the community, so to team up with the biggest martial arts school in Asia, I mean, i can’t ask for more, I’m super thankful for that. and I just think it’s incredible. it’s an instant win for me, to get my vision out in Asia.”

Evolve MMA is the home multiple world champions and could potentially see even more come through its doors through B.O.B. “I’m thankful that Evolve wants to be part of this. It means that Evolve shares my vision and believes it. and you always want people to share your vision. I truly believe it takes a village to raise a child, it takes an entire community to make a change, and I believe there’s power when people come together.”

Bullying is a problem experienced by countless kids year after year. DeBlass believes that B.O.B. can help spare kids that trauma, but knows that too many are still without a resource they can reach out to.

“My advice for those being bullied is to know that I understand it’s hard right now, but hard times will get better,” DeBlass said. “Never give up, don’t quit, many people love you, we care about you, we want to see you do well, this too will pass, don’t listen to negativity, those who are bullying are suffering in their own right too, and they need help as well. So focus on martial arts, get involved, and stay around people who care about you. and have faith and confidence that things will get better.”