If you’re a fan of mixed martial arts (MMA) or Jiu-Jitsu, you’ve probably heard of Jacob Behney. He’s a well-known figure in these sports circles. Yet, his journey is far from ordinary. His story is a mix of triumph, struggle, and undying passion for the sport he loves.
Early Life and Education
Jacob Behney was born and raised in Ohio, United States. As a young lad, he had the same dreams and aspirations as any other child. His initial interests were leaning towards engineering. He even enrolled in a local community college to pursue this dream. However, life had different plans for him. Struggling with substance abuse, he had to drop out of college.
But every cloud has a silver lining. For Behney, this challenging phase led him down a path that he would later excel in – the world of martial arts.
Transition from Baseball to MMA and Jiu-Jitsu
Behney’s early life was not all about martial arts. He initially pursued a career in baseball. However, life had its way of bringing him towards a sport where he would make a significant impact. Jacob discovered his passion for Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, and there was no turning back. His interest in these sports was not just a fleeting fascination. It was a profound commitment that would later shape his professional life.
His journey in martial arts began with Jiu-Jitsu, a sport that requires both physical strength and strategic thinking. His natural talent and persistent efforts led him to become successful in this field. He didn’t stop there. He decided to bring his passion for Jiu-Jitsu into the mixed martial arts arena. This was a major turning point in his career, and he quickly rose to prominence in the MMA community.
Founding Pinnacle Mixed Martial Arts Jiu-Jitsu School
Behney’s dedication to martial arts was not just limited to his personal achievements. He wanted to make a tangible difference in this field. With this vision, he founded the Pinnacle Mixed Martial Arts Jiu-Jitsu school in Redlands. His school was not just about training future MMA fighters. It was about empowering young individuals through sport.
At Pinnacle, Behney uses his expertise to teach and mentor young aspirants. His unique teaching methods have not only helped his students excel in MMA and Jiu-Jitsu but also instilled in them a sense of discipline, self-confidence, and resilience. These traits go beyond the fighting ring and help his students excel in all aspects of life.
Achievements in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA
Jacob Behney’s rise in the world of martial arts was meteoric. His talent and persistent efforts soon started to pay off with significant achievements in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA. He became a 2X Grapplers Quest Champion and a 2X California Classic Champion, showing his prowess in Jiu-Jitsu. His mastery over the sport didn’t stop there. He also won the Joe Moreria Championship and the San Manuel Championship twice, reinforcing his standing as a formidable competitor.
His achievements didn’t just bring him personal glory. They also helped him inspire and motivate those who trained under him. His wins served as proof that dedication, discipline, and resilience can indeed lead to success.
Personal Life and Role as a Foster Father
Behney’s life isn’t just about martial arts and mentorship. He is also known for his role as a foster father. One of his most notable foster children is UFC fighter Bobby Green. Despite the challenges that came with it, Behney embraced this role wholeheartedly, providing guidance and support to Green.
His unique approach to fatherhood mirrors his coaching style. He believes in nurturing both physical strength and mental resilience, creating a supportive environment where his foster children can thrive. His role as a foster father has brought a new dimension to his life, further enriching his contributions to the MMA and Jiu-Jitsu communities.
Legal Troubles and Prison Sentence
Jacob Behney’s life, like many, was not without its share of challenges. Perhaps the most significant and life-altering of these were his run-ins with the law. In 2016, Behney found himself on the wrong side of the law. He was arrested and later convicted of sexual assault, a charge that led to a ten-year prison sentence.
However, the course of justice took a different turn. The charges against Behney were ultimately dropped. The reasons? Insufficient evidence and inconsistent statements from the alleged victim. This development led to his release from prison. It was a time of intense scrutiny and public judgment, yet Behney managed to navigate through it all.
Conclusion
Behney’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. From his early days as a baseball player, his transition to MMA and Jiu-Jitsu, his legal troubles, and his new ventures, Behney’s story is nothing short of inspiring.
His legacy extends beyond his personal achievements in martial arts. He is not only an accomplished martial artist but also a mentor who has shaped the careers of several UFC fighters. His life serves as a beacon of hope to many, a reminder that challenges can be overcome, and dreams can be achieved with hard work and determination.
