The 2024 ADCC World Championships witnessed one of the most stunning upsets in grappling history when Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt Michael Pixley submitted the heavily favored Nicholas Meregali in the +99kg division quarterfinals. The grappling community was left in disbelief as Pixley, a standout wrestler trained by Heath Pedigo at Daisy Fresh, ended Meregali’s hopes of winning double gold. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility, especially in the world of sports.
Arrogance vs. Humility
Nicholas Meregali is known for his immense talent on the mats, but his tendency to self-proclaim himself as the greatest has often rubbed people the wrong way. Just days before his shocking defeat, Meregali posted on social media, declaring that he had already won double gold at ADCC 2024. He wrote:
“Winning ADCC Double Gold 2024 was an incredible experience. I told everyone, including myself, that I’d do it, and now, after collecting my titles, I couldn’t be more proud of myself. I’m grateful to those who helped me get here, and I’m happy to have upset all the naysayers. If you cheered for me this past weekend, I truly appreciate it. If you were rooting against me, well, better luck in ADCC 2026, you’re going to need it, again 😎.”
This premature celebration now stands as a cautionary tale about the dangers of arrogance. It’s a stark contrast to the approach taken by some of the greatest athletes in history, such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Despite their monumental achievements, neither Jordan nor James has ever publicly declared themselves as the greatest. They let their performance on the court speak for itself and allow others to make that judgment.
The Power of Humility
Humility is a common trait among the greatest athletes. It keeps them grounded and focused on continual improvement, rather than becoming complacent or overly confident. By allowing others to declare their greatness, athletes like Jordan and James demonstrate a level of respect for the game, their opponents, and the unpredictable nature of competition.
Meregali’s loss to Pixley serves as a reminder that success should never be taken for granted. The moment we start to believe our own hype and underestimate our competition, we open ourselves up to defeat. In contrast, humility keeps us aware of our limitations and motivated to overcome them.
A Lesson for All
The world of sports is full of unpredictable moments, and Meregali’s loss at ADCC 2024 is a prime example. It’s a reminder that no matter how talented or confident we may be, there is always the possibility of being humbled by an unexpected outcome. By embracing humility, we remain open to growth, learning, and the possibility of achieving even greater success.
As Meregali reflects on this experience, he may find that this loss offers a valuable lesson in humility—one that could ultimately make him a stronger competitor. For the rest of us, it’s a reminder to stay humble in our own pursuits, letting our actions speak louder than our words.
