Megadeth Frontman Dave Mustaine Earns Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 64
The frontman of the iconic thrash metal band Megadeth, Dave Mustaine, has reached a major milestone outside the music world. At the age of 64, the musician has officially been awarded a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, one of the most technically demanding and rigorous martial arts disciplines.
The promotion took place at the Renzo Gracie TN academy in the state of Tennessee. Mustaine received his black belt from his instructor, Reginaldo “Reggie” Almeida, under whose guidance he trained for several years. The news was confirmed by members of Mustaine’s circle and reported by leading Western media outlets.
Brazilian jiu-jitsu is known for its exceptionally strict ranking system: progressing from white belt to black belt can take decades. Earning this rank signifies not only technical proficiency but also a deep understanding of strategy, control, ground fighting, and the core principles of grappling. Within the BJJ community, a black belt is regarded as a rare and truly earned achievement.
Dave Mustaine’s interest in martial arts began long before he took up jiu-jitsu. In the late 1990s, he started practicing taekwondo and also studied kung fu and other disciplines. Over the years, he earned black belts in taekwondo and Ukidokan karate, training under legendary martial artist Benny “The Jet” Urquidez, one of the most influential figures in the history of full-contact fighting.
Mustaine began his journey in Brazilian jiu-jitsu relatively later in life, but his progress through the ranks was steady and unhurried. In 2019, he received his first stripe on his blue belt. In 2021, he was promoted to purple belt, and in 2022, at the age of 61, he earned his brown belt, the final colored rank before black belt.
This achievement is particularly significant given the serious challenges Mustaine has faced in recent years. In 2019, he was diagnosed with throat cancer and underwent an extensive course of treatment. Despite this, he returned not only to active touring but also to regular training on the mat.
Earning a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu at 64 years old places Dave Mustaine among the most prominent figures in the global rock scene to reach such a level in martial arts. It further reinforces his reputation as someone for whom discipline, perseverance, and self-improvement are just as important as music.
