The most accomplished Jiu-Jitsu competitor of all times will be back on the mats in less than a month.
Ten-time world champion Roger Gracie has confirmed his return to Jiu-Jitsu at the IBJJF American Nationals, next July 10-11, in Las Vegas.
The American Nationals, as well as the American Nationals No-Gi and the American Nationals Kids will all take place at the UFC Fan Expo, part of the International Fight Week.
Roger’s return will be in a supermatch against two-time black belt open class champion Rodrigo Comprido.
Roger talked to Dojjo.com about his decision to compete in Jiu-Jitsu again:
“I love the challenge of MMA, but Jiu-Jitsu is an even greater pleasure. I have already competed in the ADCC and in MMA but it is in Jiu-Jitsu that I feel true passion to fight and train for. I haven’t participated in championships for five years, but I never stopped training it every day. I really want to feel the pleasure of competing in Jiu-Jitsu again.”
Roger last competed in a Jiu-Jitsu tournament at the 2010 World championship, when he conquered his 3rd open class title and his 7th gold medal at his weight division.
Roger’s last appearance in the gi was at Metamoris I, on 2012, when he tied a 20-minute match against Marcus Buchecha.
In the same interview, Roger said his return to Jiu-Jitsu does not mean giving up his MMA career, but he intends to compete at the 2016 Worlds.
“Next year, I want to fight in the World championship but before that I want to participate in other events, since I haven’t been competing for a long time. Even though I am fighting Jiu-Jitsu, I haven’t left aside my MMA training, which also helps in my physical conditioning. I think it is not a problem to be focused on both fights at the same time.”
You can also register to be a part of the American Nationals alongside Roger Gracie and Rodrigo Comprido.
Click here to register now.
The post Roger Gracie returns to Jiu-Jitsu against Comprido at the American Nationals during the UFC Fan Expo first appeared on Graciemag.