Rickson Gracie Books, DVDs & Collectibles

About

Rickson Gracie is widely regarded as one of the greatest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners in history. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on November 21, 1958, he is the third son of Helio Gracie, who alongside his brother Carlos, pioneered and developed Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Rickson began training in BJJ at an extremely young age under his father's tutelage and was awarded his black belt at 18, an exceptional accomplishment. He gained legendary status in Brazil during the 1980s through numerous challenge matches, beach fights, and vale tudo (no-holds-barred) competitions, where he remained undefeated. In the 1990s, Rickson brought his skills to Japan, competing in the Japan Vale Tudo series where he won the championship in 1994 and 1995. These victories significantly elevated the global profile of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Throughout his professional fighting career, Rickson maintained a perfect record of 11-0, though he has claimed to have participated in over 400 competitions and fights including unofficial matches. Beyond his competitive achievements, Rickson is known for his philosophical approach to BJJ, emphasizing breathing techniques, efficiency of movement, and the concept of "invisible jiu-jitsu"—the subtle pressure and weight distribution that makes his technique particularly effective. His teaching focuses on BJJ as both a martial art and a way of life. Rickson was featured in the 1999 documentary "Choke," which followed his preparation for the 1995 Japan Vale Tudo Fighting Championship. In 2021, he published his autobiography "Breathe: A Life in Flow," detailing his life journey and martial arts philosophy. Today, he continues to influence BJJ through the Rickson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Association and remains one of the most respected figures in martial arts history.