FREE SHIPPING to the U.S. on ALL ORDERS!

29 Years Ago: Royce Gracie Changed The World Of Martial Arts Forever

November 12, 1993 marks one of the most important dates for martial arts in history – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in particular.

For, 29 years (and 1 day) ago, Royce Gracie won the first-ever UFC event. He competed in three fights and submitted all three of his opponents to win the tournament; Art Jimmerson, Ken Shamrock, and Gerard Gordeau.

But why was this tournament win so important for BJJ? It was because Royce Gracie demonstrated that Jiu-Jitsu is effective and that it could be used to defeat much larger fighters; including those who the audience previously thought would make easy work of BJJ.

Royce explained his strategy submitting Gordeau in the final match:

My strategy is not to give them a chance to hit me. I don’t want to get hurt, that’s the main thing. I want to win without getting hit – to get in the clinch just don’t let them hit me.

He also stated that he’s thankful for his family:

I thanks to my brother, my family for teach me this, and for giving me the chance, the opportunity to go do this.

Royce went on to win UFC 2 and UFC 4, forever marking his name in MMA history – and in 2003, became a member of the UFC Hall Of Fame.

The post 29 Years Ago: Royce Gracie Changed The World Of Martial Arts Forever appeared first on Bjj Eastern Europe.

Older Post
Newer Post
Close (esc)

Popup

Use this popup to embed a mailing list sign up form. Alternatively use it as a simple call to action with a link to a product or a page.

Age verification

By clicking enter you are verifying that you are old enough to consume alcohol.

Search

Shopping Cart

Your cart is currently empty.
Shop now