Vagner Rocha explained his absence from the recent EBI, in which he says he was asked to fight for potentially no prize. 

Rocha was originally announced to face 10th Planet's Richie "Boogeyman" Martinez in a combat jiu-jitsu match, which allows slaps and open-hand palm strikes. 

The Fight Sports black belt took to social media, claiming that he had not been offered a guaranteed prize for the bout with the only compensation coming if he submitted his opponent in the regulation time period. 

"For those who don’t know, I was the original opponent scheduled to compete against Boogeyman for the combat jiu jitsu welterweight title at EBI 16," wrote Rocha. 

"This was an opportunity I had been very excited for since capturing the CJJ lightweight title. However, I made the decision to withdraw back in May for reasons I’m strongly passionate about. Those of you who’ve known me or followed my career over the years know I’ve been an outspoken advocate for the compensation of jiu jitsu athletes. I’ve been highly critical of the IBJJF for this exact reason; I’m in favor of competitors at the highest level being paid their worth and recognized as professional athletes. Many of you understand the sacrifices it takes to make a living through jiu jitsu. 

"For EBI 16, I was offered to compete in a match where my participation would be uncompensated, and where I could potentially win (in OT) and not be paid. The only opportunity for reward was submit in regulation. 

"I’ve enjoyed the EBI tournament format and it’s emphasis on pursuing submissions; however, I don’t agree with this pay structure for a combat jiu jitsu special match. I shared my concerns with the promotion and tried to negotiate on several occasions with no success. I believe I was far from unreasonable, I was just looking to not lose money considering expenses for a match in which I’m putting my body on the line much like an MMA fight. 

"I understand being outspoken may have a negative impact on me in the short-term with EBI, but I stand by my convictions that compensating athletes is the only way to bring jiu jitsu to the next level. I’m sorry to everyone who was looking forward to seeing me compete at EBI, and I look forward to my next opportunity to put on a show for all my friends, family, and supporters."