Eddie Bravo: Building An Empire (Episode 2)
In “Eddie Bravo: Building An Empire (Episode 2),” you will explore the significant contributions of Eddie Bravo to the world of jiu-jitsu. The article outlines his breakthrough at ADCC in 2003 and the subsequent negativity he faced. As the founder of the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu team, Eddie shares his thoughts on the rematch with Royler Gracie and provides insights into what drives him. The video, published by FloGrappling, delves into Eddie’s journey, his training in Israel, and his belief in the growth and popularity of jiu-jitsu. With a desire to make the sport more exciting to watch, Eddie references the high-energy Eddie Bravo Invitational as an example.
Episode 2: Building An Empire
In the second episode of Building an Empire, we gain insight into what drives Eddie Bravo, the musician, martial artist, revolutionary thinker, and iconoclast known for his significant contribution to jiu-jitsu. Following his breakthrough at ADCC in 2003, Eddie Bravo faced nothing but negativity. Moving from the music studio to his Los Angeles-based gym, the headquarters of his 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu team, this episode delves into Eddie’s journey and his thoughts on his rematch with Royler Gracie. The video is published by FloGrappling, a platform dedicated to providing the latest jiu-jitsu videos.
Eddie Bravo’s Contribution to Jiu-Jitsu
Eddie Bravo’s contribution to jiu-jitsu is significant and undeniable. After his breakthrough at ADCC in 2003, where he tapped out Jordah Gracie as a brown belt, he faced backlash and negativity. Being an American who tapped out a member of the Gracie family, Eddie Bravo’s success was seen as an upset and even questioned. Despite the skepticism and criticism, Eddie Bravo continued to influence the jiu-jitsu community with his unique style and approach. His breakthrough at ADCC 2003 marked a turning point in his career and set the stage for the founding of the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu team.
Breakthrough at ADCC 2003
In 2003, Eddie Bravo made history at ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) by defeating Jordah Gracie, a member of the renowned Gracie family, as a brown belt. This victory catapulted Eddie into the spotlight and showcased his unconventional jiu-jitsu style. As an American tapping out a Gracie, Eddie faced criticism and skepticism from the jiu-jitsu community in Brazil. However, this breakthrough proved that there was a place for new approaches and techniques in the world of jiu-jitsu.
Facing Negativity
Following his victory at ADCC 2003, Eddie Bravo faced a significant amount of negativity from the jiu-jitsu community, particularly in Brazil. The combination of him tapping out a Gracie and his outspokenness about the traditional gi-based jiu-jitsu practice made him a controversial figure. Many questioned his legitimacy and labeled him as disrespectful. However, Eddie remained steadfast in his beliefs and used the criticism as fuel to further push the boundaries of the sport. Rather than allowing the negativity to discourage him, he embraced it and used it as motivation to continue evolving and promoting his unique approach to jiu-jitsu.
Founding the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Team
One of Eddie Bravo’s most significant contributions to jiu-jitsu was the founding of the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu team. The team’s philosophy revolves around a no-gi approach, focusing on techniques and strategies that complement mixed martial arts (MMA). Rejecting the traditional gi-based jiu-jitsu, Eddie Bravo aimed to create a system that would cater to combat situations without the restraints of the traditional uniform. The founding of the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu team allowed Eddie Bravo to share his knowledge, techniques, and philosophy with a broader audience, influencing the sport on a global scale.
Eddie Bravo’s Personal Journey
Eddie Bravo’s personal journey in jiu-jitsu began with an obsession. As a practitioner, he immersed himself in the art, dedicating countless hours to training and honing his skills. This dedication led him to seek out intense training experiences, such as his time in Israel, where he trained jiu-jitsu fifteen times a week. Eddie Bravo’s journey in jiu-jitsu also had a profound impact on his involvement in MMA. His knowledge and techniques in jiu-jitsu translated well into the MMA arena, leading to his belief in the growth and popularity of the sport.
Jiu-Jitsu’s Influence on MMA
Jiu-jitsu has played an integral role in the development and success of MMA fighters. Eddie Bravo’s personal experience demonstrates the effectiveness of jiu-jitsu techniques in MMA. By incorporating jiu-jitsu into their training, MMA fighters gain essential skills for ground fighting, submissions, and overall grappling. Eddie Bravo’s success in both jiu-jitsu and MMA serves as a testament to the importance of jiu-jitsu in the world of combat sports.
Belief in Jiu-Jitsu’s Growth
Eddie Bravo firmly believes that jiu-jitsu will continue to grow and become increasingly popular. Despite its portrayal as a niche sport, Eddie Bravo sees the potential for jiu-jitsu to reach a broader audience. As more people discover the benefits and excitement of practicing jiu-jitsu, the sport is poised to expand and gain more recognition. Eddie Bravo’s vision for jiu-jitsu encompasses its growth and evolution, not only as a martial art but also as a lifestyle and community.
Memorable Experiences
During Eddie Bravo’s jiu-jitsu journey, he has had many memorable experiences. One particularly remarkable experience was rolling with a skilled older practitioner. These experiences with seasoned practitioners not only provide valuable learning opportunities but also serve as a reminder of the vast knowledge and wisdom that exists within the jiu-jitsu community.
Opinions on Jiu-Jitsu as a Spectator Sport
While jiu-jitsu is exciting to practice, Eddie Bravo acknowledges that it can be boring to watch as a spectator sport. This sentiment arises from issues with the point system and gi matches, which prioritize control and positional dominance over constant action. Eddie Bravo desires to make jiu-jitsu more exciting for spectators by introducing more action and finishes. He references the Eddie Bravo Invitational, known for its high-energy matches and innovative rule set, as an example of how jiu-jitsu can be made more exciting to watch.
Conclusion with Eddie Bravo’s Vision
Eddie Bravo’s vision for jiu-jitsu encompasses its growth, evolution, and excitement as both a martial art and a spectator sport. Despite the negativity he faced along his journey, Eddie Bravo remained committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional jiu-jitsu and creating a platform for innovation and creativity. Through the founding of the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu team and his continuous efforts to make jiu-jitsu more exciting, Eddie Bravo has significantly contributed to the world of jiu-jitsu. His unwavering drive and dedication continue to inspire practitioners worldwide.