Actor Mario Lopez Wins Silver at IBJJF Competition

The Saved by the Bell star returned to the mat as a purple belt at the Orange County Spring Open

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:05am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicts the dynamic movements and grappling techniques of a Jiu-Jitsu competition, with figures and details dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes.A neon-hued expressionist painting captures the raw intensity of a Jiu-Jitsu match, as a celebrity competitor returns to the mat.Orange Today

Famous actor Mario Lopez, known for his role as AC Slater on Saved by the Bell, recently competed at the IBJJF Orange County Spring Open 2026, winning a silver medal in the Master 4 lightweight purple belt division. Lopez has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 3 years and his wrestling background has served him well in competition.

Why it matters

Lopez's return to competition as a purple belt in Jiu-Jitsu highlights the growing popularity of the sport among celebrities, as more and more high-profile figures take up grappling disciplines later in life. His success also demonstrates the fierce level of competition even in the colored belt Masters divisions at IBJJF events.

The details

In the competition footage, Lopez showed off his strong standing grappling skills, winning his first match before falling short in the final. Despite the loss, his silver medal performance proves he has continued to improve his Jiu-Jitsu skills since taking up the sport in his 40s after first introducing it to his son.

  • The IBJJF Orange County Spring Open 2026 took place in April 2026.

The players

Mario Lopez

A famous actor best known for his role as AC Slater on the TV show Saved by the Bell, who has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for over 3 years and recently competed as a purple belt.

Justin Flores

A legendary grappler with whom Lopez has trained and sparred.

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What’s next

Lopez is expected to continue competing at the purple belt level, with the goal of eventually earning his brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

The takeaway

Mario Lopez's return to competition as a purple belt in Jiu-Jitsu demonstrates the growing popularity of the sport among celebrities, as well as the high level of skill and dedication required to succeed even in the Masters divisions of IBJJF events.