FORMER judo Olympian and Southeast Asian Games multi-medalist John Baylon continues to make waves on the grappling mat, earning a silver medal at the 2024 IBJJF World Masters in Las Vegas.
Competing under Clube De Jiu Jitsu Filipinas, where he also serves as a coach, Baylon reached the final of the 81 kg category, where he faced off against the world’s No. 1 in his age group, Wellington Leal Dias of Gracie Humaita, Brazil.
“A true inspiration, proving that dedication has no age limits. We are proud to have you representing Clube De Jiu Jitsu Filipinas,” the club proudly stated on Facebook.
At 59, Baylon remains one of the most decorated Filipino judokas, having dominated the Southeast Asian Games from 1991 until 2009, before his first loss in 2011, which signaled his retirement.
In his final SEA Games appearance, he fell to Vietnamese judoka Hai Long To in the 81 kg semifinal. Baylon also represented the Philippines in judo at the 1988 and 1992 Summer Olympics.
His journey into Brazilian jiu-jitsu began in 2002 while he was still an active judoka.
By 2005, he won a gold medal in the SEA Games, incorporating jiu-jitsu techniques. In 2008, Baylon earned his black belt under Toshiyuki Wado, marking the start of his active participation in the sport.
Baylon’s jiu-jitsu career includes numerous accolades, such as a silver medal at the 2016 East and Southeast Asia Regionals in Hanoi, Vietnam, alongside Asian Indoor gold medalist and world champion Annie Ramirez.
