Tom Brady dropped a surprising revelation during a Kick stream with Nina Drama. The NFL legend revealed that Sean Shelby, the UFC’s longtime matchmaker and Vice President of Talent Relations, is his first cousin. Brady said it with a smile, calling Shelby “my boy” and expressing love for him.
Shelby worked for the UFC for over twenty years, building a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the fight sports industry. He’s responsible for booking fights and managing rosters across multiple weight classes. Brady’s involvement with the UFC has been visible for years through attendance at events and friendships with fighters. Now that he knows his cousin runs a matchmaking service, it adds context to that interest and access.
Brady revealed, “My cousin, Sean Shelby, has worked for the UFC for over twenty years. That’s my boy. My first cousin. I love you so much, Sean. He’s done a great job of working with Dana over the years, and I’m a huge UFC fan, I love all those fighters.“
Tom Brady reveals UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby is his first cousin 😳🔥
Via: @Ninadrama pic.twitter.com/mmERS1Vmx7
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) December 17, 2025
Brady and Shelby probably grew up together before becoming massive figures in their respective sports. It’s remarkable that this family connection remained relatively unknown, despite both men being prominent in sports media for years. Brady casually dropped it on a stream, as if it were common knowledge. Meanwhile, Brady has also revealed his favorite UFC fighters.
Brady named Jon Jones and Khabib Nurmagomedov as the greatest UFC fighters ever. He also said that in the event of an alien invasion, he would want Khabib, Jones, and Daniel Cormier by his side, showing respect for all three despite past rivalries.
In his words, “Khabib [Nurmagomedov], Jon Jones, and [Daniel] Cormier. I love DC. I know it’s hard to love DC and Jon, but I love them both.”
There is no doubt Brady has been a close friend of Dana White, who was also present at his roast, showing he is not just a casual fan but a hardcore fan of the sport.