Shayna Baszler promoted to black belt in judo

@tampafloridajudo on Instagram

A milestone for Baszler. 

A press release was issued to share the news that WWE’s Shayna Baszler received her black belt in judo. Baszler trains at the Tampa Florida Judo and Mixed Martial Arts school with Dr. Rhadi Ferguson. 

Below is the press release: 

Dr. Rhadi Ferguson Awards WWE Superstar Shayna Baszler the Prestigious Judo Black Belt Amidst Rising Judo Influence in Her Career

TAMPA, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES, April 11, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — In a landmark event that marks the convergence of dedication, discipline, and mastery in the martial arts world, Dr. Rhadi Ferguson, a 2004 Judo Olympian and esteemed martial artist, has promoted Shayna Baszler to the rank of black belt in judo. This prestigious accolade was presented in a ceremony attended by distinguished members of the judo and broader martial arts community, celebrating Baszler’s commitment and contributions to the sport.

Shayna Baszler, renowned for her accomplishments in mixed martial arts and as a WWE superstar, has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the discipline of judo under the tutelage of Dr. Rhadi Ferguson. Her journey to achieving a black belt is a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and the martial arts ethos of continuous improvement and respect for one’s art and opponent.

The promotion ceremony, held at Tampa Florida Judo, was a gathering of Shayna’s peers, mentors, and fans, all of whom have witnessed her remarkable journey in judo. The awarding of the black belt is not just a recognition of Baszler’s technical proficiency and tactical acumen in catch wrestling, jiujitsu and judo but also her embodiment of the judo values of courtesy, courage, friendship, modesty, respect, self-control, and honor.

“Promoting Shayna Baszler to black belt is a moment of immense pride and joy for me,” said Dr. Rhadi Ferguson. “Shayna’s journey in judo is a powerful example of what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and the right guidance. Her success in judo, paralleled with her achievements in catch wrestling, jiujitsu, mixed martial arts and professional wrestling, showcases the adaptability and versatility of judo as a martial art.”

Shayna Baszler expressed deep gratitude for the honor, highlighting the role of judo in her life and career. “Receiving my black belt in judo from Dr. Rhadi Ferguson is a milestone I cherish deeply. Judo has been a fundamental part of my martial arts journey and most certainly my professional wrestling journey during my time on the road, in practice and in the ring with Ronda Rousey. This achievement is a reminder of the journey so far and the path yet to be explored.”

This promotion reinforces the importance of cross-training and the influence of judo in mixed martial arts and other combat sports. Shayna Baszler’s achievement as a judo black belt underlines the art’s relevance and adaptability, inspiring martial artists across disciplines to pursue excellence and cross-disciplinary mastery.

For more information about Dr. Rhadi Ferguson and his judo programs, please visit www.TampaFloridaJudo.net

There was also a post on the school’s Instagram page

📣 Exciting News! 🥋

I am thrilled to announce that WWE superstar Shayna Baszler has been promoted to the esteemed rank of black belt in judo by the renowned martial arts expert, Dr. Rhadi Ferguson! 🎉🙌

Shayna’s dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence have earned her this prestigious achievement. From her successful career in mixed martial arts to her awe-inspiring performances in the WWE ring, Shayna’s journey has been nothing short of incredible. Now, with her black belt in judo, she solidifies her status as one of the most accomplished athletes in the world of combat sports. 💪🏆

This promotion is a testament to Shayna’s unwavering commitment and the expert guidance of Dr. Rhadi Ferguson. Under his tutelage, Shayna has honed her skills and mastered the art of judo, showcasing her exceptional talent and determination.

Join me in congratulating Shayna Baszler on this incredible milestone! 🎉🎉 Your hard work and dedication inspire us all. We can’t wait to see you continue to dominate the WWE ring with your newfound black belt skills! 🥋💥

Baszler made her debut at GCW/Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport when she clashed with TNA’s Masha Slamovich. Slamovich was accompanied to the ring by Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace and accompanying Baszler to the ring was Zoey Stark.

About Andrew Thompson 9354 Articles
A Washington D.C. native and graduate of Norfolk State University, Andrew Thompson has been covering wrestling since 2017.