Ex-Penn State wrestling star joins new UFC BJJ event series

Former Penn State wrestling great Jason Nolf is returning to competition this month as he continues his MMA career.

On Friday, the UFC announced the launch of its new Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu live event series. The action will feature an eight-episode series, UFC Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Road to the Title, which will air daily on the UFC’s YouTube channel beginning on June 16. The series will comprise two teams of top competitors from the lightweight (155 pounds) and welterweight (170 pounds) divisions who will battle in a tournament-style bracket to determine a champion.

The event’s finals, UFC Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 1, will be held on June 25.

Jason Nolf is competing in UFC’s new BJJ series, "Road to the Title" beginning 6/16 for a chance at the inaugural welterweight title. The first UFC BBJ event will take place on June 25 during UFC International Fight Week. pic.twitter.com/zPg9h8iHAA

— Justin Basch (@JustinJBasch) June 6, 2025

Nolf is one of eight fighters who will compete in the welterweight division. The three-time NCAA champion made his MMA debut last summer in a pair of grappling events, going 1-1.

In August, Nolf announced his retirement from competitive wrestling, choosing instead to focus on his business and his jiu-jitsu career.

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