UFC icon Royce Gracie supports California sheriff’s effort to succeed Newsom

Royce Gracie Endorses Candidate for California Governor

UFC pioneer Royce Gracie has thrown his support behind Sheriff Chad Bianco, who is running for governor of California. Known for his achievements in mixed martial arts, including being the inaugural UFC champion, Gracie has a reputation for defeating larger opponents with his skill and strategy.

As the state prepares for a transition following the term-limited Gavin Newsom, Gracie expressed his backing for Bianco’s ambition to take over the governor’s seat in 2026. He described Bianco as a “fighter” who embodies the strong leadership California needs at this time.

“When Gavin Newsom shut down businesses, schools, and churches, it was Sheriff Chad Bianco who stood up to him,” Gracie remarked, emphasizing Bianco’s resilience. He believes California requires decisive action to recover from the current challenges faced under Newsom’s administration.

Bianco, a committed Trump supporter and sheriff of Riverside County, officially declared his gubernatorial candidacy in February. He stated, “Californians deserve better,” and aims to enhance safety and quality of life in the state.

During his campaign announcement, Bianco made it clear that his focus wouldn’t be on partisan politics but rather on the common aspirations of Californians. “We want leadership that genuinely cares about the cost of living,” he stated, touching on various issues from housing affordability to government transparency.

Having dedicated over 30 years to law enforcement, Bianco was first elected sheriff in 2018 and has been a vocal critic of Newsom’s policies. He played a substantial role in the success of California’s Proposition 36, which aimed to implement stricter penalties for certain offenses.

In light of Gracie’s endorsement, Bianco reflected, “Californians are waking up. We’re going to clean up this state,” highlighting the need for significant change.

With the political climate in California leaning heavily Democratic, Bianco’s path to victory appears challenging. It has been nearly two decades since a Republican has won a statewide election in the state. Currently, former Democratic Representative Katie Porter is the leading candidate to succeed Newsom, having made her opposition to President Trump a focal point of her campaign.