What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, or Gracie Jiu JItsu, was derived from the ancient Japanese art of jujutsu.  Several styles of jujutsu were popularized into Judo by Jigoro Kano, founder of the Kodokan school of Judo in Tokyo.  Mitsuyo Maeda, better known as "Count Koma", was an accomplished judoka (practioner of Judo) that emigrated to Brazil.  Maeda taught the art of Judo to the Gracie family.  Helio Gracie, the founder of Gracie Jiu Jitsu, was a small, frail man.  He had to adapt the techniques of Maeda's Judo to fit his needs against a bigger, stronger attacker.  This is the original essence of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  Leverae was combined with the modified ground work of pre WWI I Judo to become the most effective form of self defense ever devised. 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was pioneered by the Gracie family, most notably Carlos and Helio Gracie.  The Gracie family has grown considerably over the last century.  Now there are many sources of BJJ instruction that come from this great lineage.  We are proud to trace our lineage back to Rickson Gracie, the most successful "no rules" competitor in the Gracie family.  Rickson has over 400 victories to his credit in competition.  Professor Luiz Palhares is a 6th degree under Rickson, an honor held high in the grappling world.

In the early 1990's the Ultimate Fighting Challenge was started by Rorion Gracie, to prove to the world that Gracie Jiu Jitsu was the most effective form of self defense ever created.  His point was made when 170lb Royce Gracie defeated every opponent thrown at him.  Most notably was Ken Shamrock, a world renowned compeititve shoot fighter.  Royce battled out Shamrock's attacks to submit him with a rear choke.  This was a turning point for the martial arts world, and the beginning of a new era for Brazilian "Gracie" Jiu Jitsu.

Professor Palhares-6th Degree Black Belt under Rickson Gracie

We are proud to represent

Josh Johnson and Professor Luiz Palhares.