Kurt Pellegrino’s Unstoppable Journey To The UFC and Beyond: Dyslexia, Bullies & Fatherhood

2024-05-16

Former UFC Fighter, instructor, entrepreneur, and world-renowned Brazilian Jiu Jitsu martial artist Kurt "Batman" Pellegrino. In this interview Kurt opens up about his battles with dyslexia and bullying, and how his mindset has helped him on and off the mats. Early Life and Dyslexia Kurt faced significant challenges from a young age. Born with severe dyslexia, he struggled in school and became the target of bullying. "I've been broken since I can remember," he shared, highlighting his lifelong battle with a...

Early Life and Dyslexia

Kurt faced significant challenges from a young age. Born with severe dyslexia, he struggled in school and became the target of bullying. "I've been broken since I can remember," he shared, highlighting his lifelong battle with a learning disability. Despite these obstacles, Kurt's resilience and determination were unwavering.

Wrestling as a Lifeline

Wrestling became a sanctuary for Kurt. Encouraged by his father, a Marine, he dedicated himself to the sport, finding both an outlet for his frustrations and a path to respect. His hard work paid off, and he became a two-time New Jersey State Wrestling Finalist and a Region Six champion and MVP. Wrestling not only honed his physical skills but also built his mental toughness, preparing him for future challenges.

Transition to MMA

Kurt transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2003, bringing his wrestling prowess to the UFC octagon. Kurt trained under BJJ legend Marcelo Garcia and he quickly made a name for himself, debuting in the UFC on July 8, 2006. Despite early setbacks, including a loss to Drew Fickett, Kurt's resilience shone through as he secured notable victories over fighters like Rob Emerson, Alberto Crane, and Thiago Tavares. His submission win over Fabrício Camões at UFC 111 earned him the "Submission of the Night" honor.

Mindset and Motivation

Kurt's mindset was shaped by his early experiences with bullying and dyslexia. He used these challenges as fuel for his success, maintaining an unwavering pace in training and competition. "I've been battling a learning disability and being in uncomfortable situations my whole life," he explained. This relentless drive was a key factor in his rise to prominence in the MMA world.

Family and Coaching

Balancing fatherhood and coaching, Kurt is deeply committed to his family. He ensures that his children, especially his son Kurt Jr., a talented young wrestler, receive the support and encouragement they need. By fostering a positive and supportive environment, Kurt aims to prevent his children from facing the same pressures he did. "Ever since I started telling him, 'I love you,' he's been doing really good," Kurt shared, highlighting the importance of love and support in achieving success.

Retirement and Legacy

After retiring from professional fighting, Kurt established Pellegrino Mixed Martial Arts, a premier training center at the Jersey Shore. Here, he continues to inspire and train the next generation of fighters. His legacy in the sport remains impactful, with numerous accolades, including Fight of the Night and Submission of the Night honors, and inductions into the Grapplers Quest Hall of Fame and the New Jersey MMA Hall of Fame.

Kurt Pellegrino's Accolades

3rd degree black belt certified IBJJF
7-5 UFC record
2x NJ state finals
Region six champion and MVP
Region six Hall of Fame
Pt. Pleasant Borough Hall of Fame, Pt. Pleasant Borough Wrestling Hall of Fame, Retired singlet
13-0 Grapplers Quest super fight champion
Grapplers Quest Hall of Fame
NJ MMA Hall of Fame
US trials runner up
Pan Am gi gold medalist
Pan Am nogi black belt gold medalist
3x New York Open gold medalist
14 fights in the UFC
5 fight of the night plus submission of the night winner
Arnold Classic Open champion
Fight to Win winner via submission of the Night