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In a notable crossover between sports and politics, UFC legend Royce Gracie has officially endorsed Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco in California’s upcoming gubernatorial race to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom.
Gracie, a three-time UFC champion and pioneer in mixed martial arts who made his name defeating larger opponents through technique and precision, called Bianco a “fighter” who is “exactly who we need” to lead California.
“When Gavin Newsom closed businesses, schools, and churches, one person stood against him, Sheriff Chad Bianco,” Gracie said in a statement. “Chad Bianco didn’t fold. He’s a fighter, and a fighter is exactly who we need as Governor of California. We need his strength to turn this state around after the mess Gavin Newsom has created.”
Bianco, who has served as Riverside County Sheriff since 2018, launched his Republican campaign in February 2025. A vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, Bianco has positioned himself as a law-and-order candidate focused on public safety, affordability, and government reform.
“This campaign will not be about the divide between Republicans and Democrats. It will be about the common goal we all have for a better California,” Bianco said during his campaign announcement. He has emphasized addressing the state’s cost of living crisis, housing affordability, infrastructure reliability, and reducing government bureaucracy.
The sheriff has built a reputation as a vocal critic of Newsom’s administration, particularly on criminal justice issues. Bianco was instrumental in the successful passage of Proposition 36 last November, a ballot measure that toughened penalties for certain drug and theft crimes in California.
In response to Gracie’s endorsement, Bianco stated, “Californians are waking up, and we are going to clean up this state. Gavin Newsom has been chasing away Californians in record numbers. I’m grateful for the support of patriots like Royce Gracie.”
Despite the high-profile endorsement, Bianco faces significant challenges in his gubernatorial bid. California has not elected a Republican to statewide office in nearly two decades, and the state’s political landscape remains firmly Democratic-leaning.
Current polling suggests former Democratic Representative Katie Porter is the frontrunner to succeed Newsom. Porter, known for her progressive policies, has made opposition to Trump a central theme of her campaign. Xavier Becerra, who served as U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary under President Biden and previously as California’s Attorney General, is also seeking the Democratic nomination.
The timing of Gracie’s endorsement comes as California continues to grapple with multiple challenges, including a persistent housing crisis, concerns over crime rates, and economic pressures that have driven some residents to leave for other states. Newsom, who is term-limited and cannot seek reelection, is widely rumored to harbor presidential ambitions for 2028.
Gracie’s endorsement represents an interesting intersection of celebrity influence in state politics. As one of the most recognized figures in combat sports history, his support could potentially help Bianco gain visibility in a crowded field. The Brazilian-born Gracie revolutionized martial arts in America when he dominated the first UFC tournament in 1993, showcasing the effectiveness of Brazilian jiu-jitsu against various fighting styles.
California’s gubernatorial primaries are scheduled for June 2, 2026, with the general election following on November 3. As the campaign develops, it will test whether a law enforcement-focused Republican candidacy backed by sports celebrities can gain traction in a state that has trended increasingly Democratic in recent election cycles.
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9 Comments
It’s an interesting dynamic, with a UFC legend endorsing a law-and-order Republican in a heavily Democratic state. The candidate will need to convince voters he can bridge the partisan divide and bring people together.
While I respect Gracie’s fighting credentials, I’m not sure his endorsement will carry a lot of weight outside of MMA circles. Voters will likely want to see concrete policy proposals from the candidate, not just tough-guy rhetoric.
I’m curious to learn more about the candidate’s specific plans for addressing the state’s challenges, like the economy, affordability, and the pandemic response. Endorsements are nice, but voters will want substance.
The law-and-order messaging from this candidate seems to be a key part of his platform. It will be intriguing to see if voters respond positively to that approach in a state like California.
You’re right, the law-and-order focus could be a double-edged sword. It may attract some voters but also turn off others who want a more balanced, nuanced approach to public safety and criminal justice.
While I respect Gracie’s opinion, I’m not sure a UFC fighter’s endorsement is going to move the needle much in a high-profile gubernatorial race. Voters will want to see concrete policy proposals, not just tough talk.
That’s a fair point. An endorsement from a sports figure, no matter how accomplished, may not carry a lot of weight with the broader electorate. The candidate will need to make a strong case on the issues.
As someone who generally supports law enforcement, I can understand the appeal of a candidate like this. But I also think California needs a more balanced, nuanced approach to public safety. Hopefully the candidate can articulate that vision.
Interesting to see a prominent MMA figure endorse a pro-law enforcement candidate in the California governor race. Gracie’s comments about the candidate’s ‘strength’ and standing up to Newsom during the pandemic will likely resonate with some voters.