Tribute to the Gracie Family for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Carlos Gracie, Founder of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

It is with great honor we recognize the founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Carlos Gracie Sr. who began his training with Japanese Master Court Koma when he was 15 years old and trained with him until he was 21 years of age. Carlos sacrifice, dedication and perseverance is what made jiu-jitsu an art that would be shared with his brother Helio and passed down from one generation to another.

Helio Gracie, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Founder

Carlos and Helio took the art of jiu-jitsu and changed it from its formal Japanese style and turned it into an art that could win street fights common in Brazil. The Gracie brothers turned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu into the best ground fighting system ever created.

This is an exciting time for the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in America. As an American with dual citizenship, I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu heritage. As we look to the future it is important to remember those who dedicated their lives to the art of jiu-jitsu.

In honor of Carlos Gracie and his family, I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of you for your contribution to the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It is the Gracie family who has made the biggest impact in the martial arts world today.

Rommel Dunbar