What is the History of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? A Journey of Fight and Triumph

The Gentle Art: The Birth of Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-Jitsu, known as the gentle art, has deep roots and a rich history. Although brought to Brazil by the Japanese, it was the Brazilians who shaped the fight as we know it today.

Distant Origins

The origin of Jiu-Jitsu is hard to date. Some believe it started in India 2,500 years ago, but it was in Japanese samurai schools that it developed as jujutsu (gentle art). Twisting and falling techniques were effective against armored samurais.

Modernization in Japan

In 1882, Jigoro Kano modernized jujutsu, giving rise to judo. Ground fighting was maintained, but falls and immobilizations were prioritized.

Arrival in Brazil: The Gracie Family and the Gentle Art

Jiu-Jitsu arrived in Brazil in the early 20th century with Mitsuyo Maeda. He taught Carlos Gracie, who, along with his brothers, gave rise to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

The Legacy of Count Koma

Maeda, known as Count Koma, defeated taller and heavier opponents using his techniques. He taught Carlos Gracie, who saw in Jiu-Jitsu the chance to defeat larger opponents.

Hélio Gracie’s Innovation

Hélio Gracie, Carlos’s brother, implemented the principles of leverage, giving rise to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The martial art began to be developed with unique characteristics.

The Popularization of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil

The Gracie Family used challenges to prove the superiority of Jiu-Jitsu. The Gracie Challenge is considered the embryo of MMA.

Heroes of the Ring

Jiu-Jitsu gained fame in Brazil and had a television program in 1959. The fights were broadcast in prime time.

The Vale-Tudo Era

The “professionalization” of vale-tudo occurred in the 1980s. In 1991, Rede Globo broadcast a competition.

Modern Modalities

Today, the sport is played with or without a kimono “No Gi” and has rules to preserve the athlete’s physical integrity.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and UFC: An Inseparable Relationship

The Gracie Family transformed Jiu-Jitsu into a celebrity in Brazil and the world.

Royce Gracie’s Conquest

Royce Gracie won three fights and was the first UFC champion. He opened the doors to well-known figures like Anderson Silva and José Aldo.

Global Influence

The UFC has become one of the most relevant sports companies in the world, influenced by Jiu-Jitsu.

Conclusion: A Living Legacy

The history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is linked to the growth of MMA in the world. The Gracie Family developed a martial art that could win any other and proved it. Today, there are millions of practitioners worldwide. The history of Jiu-Jitsu is a journey of fight, passion, and triumph.

So, did you like learning about the history of Jiu-Jitsu?