Congratulations to Darren!!

Facebook is a wonderful thing. I haven't even talked to my friend Darren Uyenoyama, but through the magic of the Facebook status update, I now know that he was awarded his black belt today! He's under Ralph Gracie and Kurt Osiander, so I'm assuming both of them handed it over. I am so happy for Darren! He is a great grappler and a very successful MMA fighter--a regular on the Dream circuit and possessor of a pretty badass nickname: The Bone Crusher.

As some of you may recall, Darren and I were on the 2007 US team that went to Turkey to compete in the FILA World Grappling Games. He's a large part of the reason that I stayed reasonably sane, and I think I returned the favor, especially when he was trying to cut weight the day before. (Anybody remember his "valuable glycogen" comment? If not, I'll post again--I have no qualms about having a laugh at his expense. It's just how good a friend I am.)

Anyway, Darren is a great person, a fantastic martial artist, and a dear, tiny bit pervy friend. I am so happy for him and can't wait to congratulate him in person! YAY!!!

And Darren, if you're reading this, yes you are too a little bit pervy, and call or text me back!!