Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, has once again made headlines by bringing back a unique and unconventional hobby: sparring with UFC fighters on a floating barge. This time, he faced off against Merab Dvalishvili, the 2024 UFC Bantamweight title winner, in a video that showcases their intense training session. The video, shared on Instagram, features a variety of camera angles, including drone shots, capturing the intense exchanges between Zuckerberg and Dvalishvili. The pair engage in punching, kicking, and takedowns, all set to the instrumental version of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' "Can't Hold Us."
This isn't the first time Zuckerberg has participated in such an activity. In 2023, he sparred with two other UFC champions, Alexander Volkanovski and Israel Adesanya, on the same floating barge. His interest in combat sports began during the COVID-19 pandemic when he started training in jiu-jitsu, practicing three to four times a week. Zuckerberg's passion for mixed martial arts (MMA) has even led him to develop friendships with professional fighters.
One notable moment from the video is when Zuckerberg's wife, Priscilla Chan, rides past on a canoe. He humorously mentions that Dvalishvili made her take off her shirt, believing it would make her look more like a fighter. This light-hearted moment adds a touch of personality to the otherwise intense training session.
Zuckerberg's involvement in the MMA community has not been without its challenges. In 2023, he tore his ACL while sparring, which required surgery and delayed his plans for an MMA fight. Meta's financial filings also highlight the risk factors associated with his participation in high-risk activities, including combat sports, extreme sports, and recreational aviation, which carry the potential for serious injury and death.
The CEO's engagement with the UFC community has sparked interest and even a meme. During a UFC bout in 2024, Zuckerberg was pictured in Volkanovski's corner, awkwardly nodding and offering a hand to other cornermen while they passed items. This moment became a meme, showcasing the unique and sometimes humorous interactions within the MMA world.
Interestingly, Zuckerberg's involvement in combat sports has also drawn comparisons to Elon Musk. In 2023, Zuckerberg accepted Musk's challenge for a fight, with the Colosseum in Rome proposed as a venue. However, the fight never materialized, leaving fans and observers curious about the potential outcome.
Despite the risks and the light-hearted moments, Zuckerberg's dedication to his training and his involvement in the MMA community continue to captivate and intrigue. His unique hobbies and friendships within the combat sports world add a layer of complexity to his public image, making him a fascinating figure in the tech industry and beyond.
