Royler alongside his father, Hélio, who passed away in 2009. Photo: Reproduction/Royler Grace.com
In the past, the main mission of the members of the Gracie family was to spread jiu-jitsu techniques around the world, which was seen through challenges made with athletes from other martial arts and the first Vale-Tudo events, including the creation of UFC itself, in 1993.
Success was achieved: jiu-jitsu became a respected art around the world and established itself as a mandatory item for any fighter who intends to venture into MMA competitions. So, what is the clan's big goal these days? With the word, Royler Grace, living legend of jiu-jitsu, son of Hélio Gracie and brother of fighters like Rickson and Royce.
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At 48 years old, Royler, who remains steadfast in jiu-jitsu training, combining it with working out, surfing and seminars, considers that the mission has not changed compared to recent decades: “The mission remains the same. There are many places and many people to catechize”, he commented, in an interview with SUPER FIGHTS.
Even so, he recognizes that, since jiu-jitsu has already gained international notoriety, it is natural that there has been a decrease in the participation of members of the Gracie family in MMA competitions. “The fact is that we have already proven that jiu-jitsu is efficient and everyone is using it in MMA. That was the big reason to participate in the events. Furthermore, MMA events have rules that restrict the time needed to apply jiu-jitsu,” he argues. “[As a result] Many in the family are focused on developing their own gyms and memberships.”
Royler also sees naturally the fact that there are fewer submissions in current MMA fights. “It’s not a question of [the adaptation of jiu-jitsu to MMA] being easy or difficult. All fighters now use jiu-jitsu as part of their training, so it makes the fight more balanced,” he opined.
Therefore, motivated to continue “catechizing” people with jiu-jitsu techniques, Royler considers that the work is still hard, regardless of the fact that he is a consecrated member of the family who has dedicated himself to the gentle art for several generations. “Being part of the Gracie family always helps, of course. After all, the tradition of the founders, the style and the tradition of fighting and defending art gives it extra strength. But at the end of the day, it’s your work and attitude that counts,” he concluded.
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