BJJ blue belt demotion sparks viral discussion after student is stripped of belt in class.
Student says he wasn’t showing up, staying consistent, or performing at the expected level.
The incident raises renewed debate on formal vs. informal ranking systems, sandbagging, and accountability in Jiu-Jitsu culture.
Stripped in Front of the Class
In a rare but highly public move, a BJJ blue belt demotion was captured on video and rapidly went viral, sparking controversy across the grappling world. The footage shows a student at a BJJ academy standing in front of his teammates as his coach removes his blue belt and hands him a white one, leaving him dumbfounded.
“For all your tardiness, for everyone’s seriousness, next time you’ll come on time,” – The BJJ instructor –
The moment might appear humiliating to some, but the student later posted a full explanation:
“It’s true that I was pretty angry at first, but thinking about it, he’s right. It’s not appropriate to arrive late like that.” – Demoted student –
This level of public accountability struck a chord, both supportive and critical, across social media platforms and Jiu-Jitsu forums.
BJJ Blue Belt Demotion – A Rare Move, But Not Unprecedented
A belt demotion in BJJ is a rare occurrence, especially compared to promotions. Still, they’re not unheard of. While there is no formal global policy on demotions, individual academies reserve the right to make these decisions based on effort, consistency, and overall performance.
Most Jiu-Jitsu instructors avoid demotion due to its emotional and cultural weight, especially when belt promotions are tied closely to identity and team hierarchy. But some argue it’s a necessary corrective tool when standards slip.
“There’s more upside than downside to the idea of not demoting anyone from belt.” – BeltChecker forum –
This case wasn’t the result of disciplinary action or misconduct, but rather a student’s own admission that he hadn’t been putting in the work expected of someone at the blue belt level.
BJJ Sandbagging, Self-Demotion, and the Gray Areas
The viral BJJ blue belt demotion reignited debates around sandbagging—a common practice in Jiu-Jitsu competition where practitioners compete at lower belt levels for easy wins.
While this case was not sandbagging, it touched on the blurry line between underperformance and misrepresentation.
One post on BeltChecker, a platform for verifying Jiu-Jitsu belt ranking, raised the question of credibility during BJJ belt demotions and whether it’s ever appropriate to step strip someone of rank, even if it is yourself:
“The fact is you can’t take something back that is knowledge and performance based without affecting your own credibility in the process.” – BeltChecker forum –
This idea resonated with many practitioners who argue that belts should reflect real skill and commitment, not just time served or participation trophies.
Are Public Demotions the ‘New’ Way to Keep BJJ Honest?
What makes this BJJ blue belt demotion unique isn’t just that it happened—but that it happened publicly, was recorded, and received widespread attention. Whether this becomes a trend or remains an outlier depends largely on how coaches and students view the purpose of rank in Jiu-Jitsu.
Many have praised the transparency of both the BJJ coach and the student involved, seeing it as an honest reset rather than a punishment. Others worry it could create a culture of public shaming and pressure.
Still, the student himself seemed to take the moment in stride and used it as motivation to return to training with renewed focus:
“For those wondering if this is fake or not, just know one thing: if it’s on the internet, it must be true.” – Demoted student –
No Shame in Accountability—If BJJ Can Handle It
The BJJ blue belt demotion at Divine Jiu-Jitsu has forced the community to reckon with how we assign value to belts and what expectations come with them. Whether you agree or disagree with public demotions, one thing is clear: the standards we uphold—and how we enforce them—matter more than ever.
This connection is something not often taught in classes, so a resource like the Just Sweeps Joel Bouhey DVD goes a long way in helping you forge a better guard.
Sometimes, it takes a single sentence or instruction to help you figure out an entire area of BJJ — sweeps, for example. This instructional has several of those “lightbulb” moments. While we won’t tell you where they are (kind of defeats the purpose), we can tell you about the content of the DVD. Read on!
Making Sense of No-Gi Sweeps
Playing guard in No-Gi is the most frustrating part of grappling without the kimono. The lack of gripping points and the slipperiness of No-Gi mean that holding people down when you have top position is a lot harder than training with the Gi.
Imagine how difficult it is trying to stay latched onto someone from the bottom when you have nothing to hold and they’re as slippery as an eel. Hence, the frustration with No-Gi guards and the seemingly endless quest to find the perfect one.
Well, as it turns out, there’s no need to look for the perfect guard — just the perfect sweep. For you. With so many different guards, it boils down to timing, grip placement, and the ability to wrestle. Keeping the person you just forced to the mat there as you get up is where most things go wrong with No-Gi sweeps.
These are all areas the Just Sweeps Joel Bouhey DVD can help you with — all you need to do is get your hands on it.
The Grappling Pedigree of Joel Bouhey
Joel Bouhey has been around the grappling block a few times. He holds a 3rd-degree BJJ black belt from the legendary Luis “Limao” Heredia and has spent the last 15+ years actively teaching the Gentle Art.
When he’s not on the mats teaching classes, he’s competing — albeit a bit less frequently these days. The Hawaiian has plenty of state championships, as well as medals in various grappling competitions, which led him to become the go-to man for many pro MMA athletes looking for grappling direction.
Joel is also very active in the digital instructionals space, with more than a dozen titles available through BJJ Fanatics, some of which are all-time bestsellers on the platform. Whether the Just Sweeps Joel Bouhey DVD will join that select club remains to be seen. If you want to know what we think of it, read on.
Just Sweeps Joel Bouhey DVD Review
The Joel Bouhey Sweeps DVD is a short one, consisting of only one volume and running just under an hour. However, in that short time, it delivers a lot of key BJJ sweeps information:
#1. Full Guard
The Just Sweeps Joel Bouhey DVD features only one volume, but there is a division of sweeps within it based on the starting guard position. First up are closed guard sweeps that you already know — or think you know: scissor, pendulum, and sit-up sweep. Joel has some key details to bump up your full guard sweeps game instantly!
#2. Open Guard
The butterfly sweep marks the point where the guard opens and inevitably leads to open guard and all its glorious variations. Regardless of the open guard version, proven sweeps such as the push, sickle, hook, and tripod sweep get a modern-day breakdown that was long overdue.
#3. Half Guard
Half guard sweeping options offered in the Just Sweeps Joel Bouhey DVD center around split-leg sweeps, with the Electric Chair getting lots of attention. Other options include the old-school underhook sweep and tilt sweep.
#4. X Guards
Finally, even though they’re technically open guards, the frequency of use of X Guards places them in a category of their own. Both the single leg and full X Guard feature, as Bouhey launches into an explanation of the twist sweep, drop-and-chop sweep, and back takes, before wrapping it up with a slick wrestle-up.
Getting on Top
Sweeping is one of the most deceptively difficult things to do in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It takes lots of precision and impeccable timing to pull it off against people who know how to grapple.
Understanding sweeps is easy — take away the balance of the person on top and place their butt and shoulders on the mat. Boom — you got a sweep. Or so you thought.
The one area where most people in BJJ fail with their sweeps is the follow-up that is supposed to take you to the top.
Namely, making someone fall is not that difficult, as taking away balance often comes instinctively. Getting on top while keeping the person on the mat is where the difficulty lies — and where grapplers get frustrated.
The Just Sweeps Joel Bouhey DVD holds some very important answers to this aspect of sweeping, all delivered through practical examples involving some of the most utilized sweeps in the history of the sport.
As your coach always says, sticking to the basics is your best bet of making things work. Nothing can be more true for sweeps in particular, with the content of this Joel Bouhey Sweeps DVD demonstrating this point beyond any doubt. Trust me — making the basics work is a lot scarier to your opponents than hitting them with something they’ve never seen.
Joe Rogan BJJ bro science spreader – Everyone’s favourite podcaster is under fire after a black belt publicly criticized his podcast’s influence on the jiu-jitsu community.
The instructor claims Rogan spreads misinformation rather than legitimate grappling knowledge.
The critique centers around the reach and authority Rogan has over beginners and hobbyists who may not question his takes.
Joe Rogan’s name has long been synonymous with martial arts commentary, but a recent video has kicked off a wave of backlash within the Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) world. A respected BJJ black belt is accusing Rogan of being the “biggest spreader of misinformation and disinformation” in the sport, reigniting tensions about how the podcaster’s influence shapes BJJ culture.
Black Belt Takes Aim: “Joe Rogan BJJ Bro Science Has Gotten Out of Control”
In a passionate critique posted to YouTube, BJJ black belt Stephen Kesting delivered a scathing takedown of Rogan’s impact on jiu-jitsu discourse. Kesting, a veteran practitioner and instructor, didn’t hold back.
“I’m not sure there’s a bigger spreader of disinformation and misinformation in general than Joe Rogan,”. – Stephen Kesting –
Kesting specifically targeted Rogan’s repeated promotion of techniques and health practices without scientific backing or contextual nuance.
He also pointed to the volume of unvetted guests on The Joe Rogan podcast, who often discuss grappling and martial arts concepts in ways that can mislead newcomers.
“He’s just got such an enormous platform. There are people out there who are more radical than he is, but when you multiply the misinformation by the reach, I think he wins.”. – Stephen Kesting –
Did Jiu-Jitsu Get Lost in the Noise?
The Joe Rogan BJJ bro science controversy goes beyond one man’s opinion. Kesting argued that Rogan’s massive platform amplifies ideas that go unchecked—especially among hobbyist grapplers.
He noted how phrases like “just get on TRT,” “kettlebell everything,” and “hyper-specific diet hacks” have become normalized in BJJ gyms due to Rogan’s echo chamber.
“You’re totally missing the fact that all these guys are on TRT and growth hormone. Everyone from RFK and to Joe Rogan. – Stephen Kesting –
Even technical advice on chokes, guards, and leg locks are often taken as gospel by white and blue belts unfamiliar with deeper instruction.
Critics like Kesting say this behavior is not just annoying—it’s dangerous. By elevating celebrity over curriculum, some fear BJJ is losing its roots in evidence-based progression and discipline.
Supporters Defend Rogan: “He’s Done More for BJJ Than Anyone”
Despite the criticism, Rogan still commands fierce loyalty in parts of the martial arts community. Supporters argue that he has brought Brazilian jiu-jitsu into the mainstream, promoted top athletes, and inspired thousands to begin training.
They point to his interviews with John Danaher, Gordon Ryan, and Rickson Gracie as proof of his deep respect for the art. However, the Joe Rogan BJJ misinformation debate shows that good intentions don’t shield one from accountability—especially in a sport that values precision.
In Grappling We Trust
Probably not overnight—but Kesting’s viral rant has struck a chord.
Several black belts have chimed in online to express similar concerns, while others argue the sport is mature enough to handle dissenting voices. The core issue remains: who shapes the knowledge that shapes the next generation of grapplers?
As BJJ becomes more global and digital, questions like these will only intensify. When podcasts compete with professors, and followers outweigh experience, the line between culture and cult gets blurry.
Everyone Loves the Joe Rogan BJJ Bro Science!
The Joe Rogan BJJ misinformation saga is a reminder that influence carries responsibility. As charismatic voices dominate platforms, practitioners must remain vigilant, discerning what’s educational and what’s just entertainment. The mats don’t lie—but podcasts just might.
The Carlson Gracie statue in Copacabana has been vandalized twice in one week, sparking outrage across the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community.
The statue was erected just weeks ago as part of Rio’s “Adote.Rio” cultural initiative to honor the late Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend.
Rio authorities are reviewing surveillance footage while jiu-jitsu leaders demand greater protections for cultural landmarks.
The attacks have triggered a global response, highlighting ongoing concerns about preserving BJJ heritage in Brazil.
“Unchoke Our History”: Carlson Gracie Statue Vandalized Twice in One Week
The Carlson Gracie statue in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, has been vandalized twice in less than seven days—sparking outrage from both the global Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community and city residents.
The bronze Copacabana monument, inaugurated in 2019 as part of Rio’s “Adote.Rio” initiative to honor cultural icons, now stands tarnished and defaced just weeks after its unveiling.
Gracie, a legendary BJJ coach and fighter, considered a BJJ cultural icon, helped shape modern Jiu-Jitsu and MMA. His larger-than-life presence on the beach was intended as a permanent tribute to his legacy.
Now, his memory has become the center of an ugly dispute between vandals and a community unwilling to let this symbolic figure be disgraced.
Who Was Carlson Gracie, and Why This Statue Matters
The statue of Carlson Gracie, designed by renowned sculptor Mario Pitanguy and positioned in Praça Shimon Peres in Copacabana, isn’t just a monument—it’s a milestone for martial arts in Brazil. The statue marks the first permanent public installation of its kind for a BJJ legend in the city.
Originally part of the city’s “Adote.Rio” project, the statue was funded through private sponsorship and supported by Rio’s City Hall. Its unveiling drew major names from the Jiu-Jitsu world and Gracie family, all eager to pay tribute to the late master who mentored legends like Vitor Belfort, Murilo Bustamante, and Ricardo Libório.
<h5 class=”custom-quote”>”Carlson is a national hero, no one in the world has done what he did. We are respected all over the world.”<br><em>– Robson Gracie, Carlson’s brother -<em></h5>
Now, city officials and martial artists alike are scrambling to respond to the disrespect shown toward one of the sport’s most influential figures.
Not Just Vandalism—A Direct Hit on BJJ’s Cultural Legacy
The most recent act of vandalism included defacement of the statue’s base and physical damage to Carlson’s figure. Days earlier, it had been targeted with spray paint. With both incidents occurring so soon after the statue’s unveiling, the acts are being viewed not just as random mischief but as deliberate attacks on Brazil’s martial arts culture.
<h5 class=”custom-quote”>”We will have to remove it to rebuild. Another case of public money lost in an act of vandalism.”<br><em>– Diego Vaz, Secretary of Conservation -<em></h5>
This isn’t the first time Rio has had to defend its public tributes from vandalism, but the emotional weight carried by the Carlson Gracie statue makes this case different.
Across social media, Jiu-Jitsu practitioners worldwide have expressed a collective sense of heartbreak and anger, calling for better security and education about the value of these icons.
Rio’s Authorities and BJJ Community Join Forces for Preservation
The Rio de Janeiro City Hall confirmed that surveillance footage is being reviewed and that they’re working with local police to identify the perpetrators. Meanwhile, the Gracie family, athletes, and cultural preservationists are pushing for tighter protections around the statue.
The “Adote.Rio” initiative, while successful in creating landmarks, may now have to implement stronger follow-up protocols—especially when dealing with monuments of such cultural sensitivity.
Efforts are underway to clean and restore the statue, but the emotional damage among BJJ faithful may take longer to heal.
Rio’s Carlson Gracie Statue A Magnet for Misconduct
The Carlson Gracie statue was supposed to be a victory lap for one of BJJ’s greatest teachers. Instead, it’s become the latest front in the ongoing battle for cultural respect and the preservation of the Carlson Gracie legacy.
As BJJ continues to grow into a global sport, moments like this remind us that its roots still run deep in Brazilian soil—and must be protected. Carlson Gracie may no longer be in the corner of his students, but his memory clearly still stands for something worth fighting for.
<h5 class=”custom-quote”>”Carlson is a legend of national sports and deserves all the honors”<br><em>– Felipe Michel, municipal secretary of Healthy Aging, Quality of Life and Events -<em></h5>
Paige VanZant’s long-awaited Power Slap title shot has been scrapped after a spinal epidural hematoma forced her withdrawal.
The former UFC star shared details of the frightening diagnosis on Instagram, where she admitted there’s a risk of paralysis.
VanZant was set to return to competition with Power Slap after significant time away from MMA and, more recently, the BKFC.
Paige VanZant Injury Forces Power Slap Title Fight Withdrawal
In a shocking turn of events, Paige VanZant has pulled out of her Power Slap match after being diagnosed with a spinal epidural hematoma—a rare and potentially paralyzing condition.
The former UFC strawweight contender was scheduled to headline Power Slap 8 on June 27 in Las Vegas, but her promotional title shot has now been postponed indefinitely. VanZant broke the news in a candid Instagram video, revealing the extent of her condition and the risks she now faces.
“I have what is called a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma. It actually didn’t come from training. It is a one in a million, freak, crazy injury that happened in my neck.” – Paige VanZant –
“I Could Be Paralyzed”: VanZant Opens Up About Her Diagnosis
There have been plenty of ups and downs in Paige VanZant career, who rose to fame through both her UFC performances and mainstream appearances on Dancing with the Stars before moving to Bare Knuckle FC.
A spinal epidural hematoma involves bleeding in the space between the spinal cord and surrounding bones—an extremely dangerous condition in any setting, let alone combat sports.
The fan favorite didn’t mince words about the seriousness of the injury:
“If it does get bigger, there is a chance I will be paralyzed. That’s just a reality I’ve come to accept” – Paige VanZant –
She noted that doctors warned her about the consequences of competing in her condition and confirmed that she’s pulling out of the bout “to get the treatment I need.”
The Paige VanZant Power Slap title shot was a marquee opportunity for the UFC-owned promotion, which continues to draw criticism for its format and safety concerns.
Her scheduled title fight against Mikael-Michelle Brown had been heavily promoted, and her sudden exit casts a shadow over the card. VanZant underwent multiple scans and medical evaluations before making the decision to withdraw.
The Paige VanZant neck injury did not happen during slap fighting training, but the risk of aggravating the condition in a Power Slap match was deemed too great.
“Basically the neurosurgeon at this point is surprised that I don’t have any neurological issues because it’s extremely serious. A lot of times people become paralyzed, start losing function of their arms and legs pretty quickly.” – Paige VanZant –
VanZant’s Injury Fuels Slap League Backlash
VanZant’s injury has reignited debates about the safety of Power Slap—a format where athletes take turns delivering and receiving open-handed blows to the face without defense.
Critics have long questioned the league’s long-term health implications, especially when it comes to head trauma and spinal injuries. Although VanZant’s condition wasn’t directly caused by slap fighting, her case illustrates how fragile the line is between sport and serious medical risk.
No Clear Return Date for Paige VanZant
VanZant has not ruled out a return to Power Slap or other forms of competition but admitted that her focus is now entirely on recovery.
The 30-year-old remains one of the most recognizable names in women’s combat sports, but her immediate future is uncertain.
“The way I feel right now, I have a feeling this is just a thing my body’s going to reabsorb the bleed. It’s not going to get worse, and I’m going to continue on with my career.” – Paige VanZant –
For now, fans and observers can only wait—and hope—that this latest setback is not a career-ending one.
Paige VanZant Injury – When the Cost of Fame is Spinal
The Paige VanZant injury has done more than cancel a title bout—it’s spotlighted the inherent risks of extreme combat sports and reminded fans that athletes carry real, lasting consequences into every fight. Whether she returns to Power Slap or takes a different path, her bravery in facing the diagnosis publicly has earned her widespread respect.
Ever wondered how you can use the K Guard to its fullest potential? No need to wonder, as you can now bank on the experience of Mateusz Szczeciński and his detail-oriented approach to BJJ tactics to turn this notion into reality.
The Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD offers more than just a collection of techniques to attack from the most offensive guard in the history of Jiu-Jitsu. It delivers several different versions of the guard — one of them brand new — creating the most elaborate trap system I’ve seen from the guard in 15 years of grappling.
The Ultimate No-Gi Guard
A guard in No-Gi that allows you to attach effectively to an opponent, prevent them from standing up, and tangle them in a way that allows you to attack both upper and lower body sounds too good to be true. In fact, it was — until someone came up with the K Guard.
These days, there’s hardly a high-level match that ends without at least one of the grapplers turning to the K Guard. And why wouldn’t you? It offers quick sweeps, even quicker submissions, and is easy to use to secure the back mount. All in all, it has everything you want from a guard, be it Gi or No-Gi.
Still, people tend to have issues with the guard, as there are certain specifics that are far easier to figure out when someone is guiding you than when you have to experiment on your own. Stuff like knee placement, scoop grip tactics and alternatives, and off-balancing are just some of the things perfectly explained in the Mateusz Szczeciński K Guard DVD.
Polaris Ruler Mateusz Szczeciński
You know the name, you’ve seen his game, and you definitely do not want to be on the receiving end of his ankle locks. Mateusz is one of the baddest lightweight grapplers in the world at the moment, and he is only gaining momentum.
The Polaris 170 lb champion and UWW European Grappling champion, representing the notorious Gorilla team from Warsaw, has an impressive record of 56 wins and 11 losses, which is only bound to increase — mostly in the win section.
A submission hunter by trait, Mateusz has been forcing people to tap in panic with all kinds of leg locks, earning a 91% submission win rate in the process. He is particularly nasty with his ankle locks, but it is not the finish that makes them so effective — it’s the control.
That’s exactly what the Polish No-Gi standout now shares in the Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD.
Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD Review
This Mateusz Szczeciński DVD is a No-Gi instructional, organized in four different volumes of varying length. The video material runs for almost four hours and spares no details on the subject of the K Guard:
Part 1 – K Guard Basics
The first part of the Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD contains more info than some full instructionals I’ve seen on the subject. Szczeciński does an incredible job breaking down the essentials of the guard and putting them back together into a system.
In this part, you’ll understand why the guard works, how to position your knees, optimal grip configurations, and how to use scoop grips. He then launches into examples that include backside and frontside K Guard options, as well as supine applications — in other words, an overview of what follows.
Part 2 – Backside Attacks & Transitions
Part two of the Mateusz Szczeciński K Guard DVD focuses strictly on the backside K Guard variation, which, as those already familiar with the position know, is a hub for inside heel hooks and Reverse Aoki Locks.
The 50/50 position features as the natural follow-up — or better said, stabilization point — for heel hooks. After initially starting in the K Guard, this is the backside destination you’re after, so you can set up a bunch of evil leg locks or complicate things further by using the Matrix to expend way more energy than you need to sweep/take the back using X-hooks.
Part 3 – Frontside Aoki Locks & Heel Hooks
The frontside version of the Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD is more direct, since it doesn’t require a stabilizing position like 50/50. This portion of the DVD includes mostly outside attacks, featuring ankle locks, outside heel hooks, and Mateusz’s preferred Aoki Lock.
Mateusz also provides several dilemma attacks here, mostly involving leg lock pairings or leg lock–sweep combinations. Towards the end, a new version of the K Guard, dubbed the Far Side K, also appears, giving newfound depth to the already elaborate guard system.
Part 4 – Shotgun Armbars & Triangles
The final part of the Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD moves away from leg locks (for a bit) and introduces lightning-quick upper-body submission options directly available from the position.
A K Guard classic comes first, as Szczeciński offers some mind-blowing shotgun armbar details that I haven’t seen before. He expands on that with even more unexpected armlocks by breaking down how to use Choi Bars and the dreaded Mir Lock.
A few carefully selected triangle choke setups and finishes bring this volume — and the entire instructional — to an end.
The Baddest Trap System in BJJ
So, why is the K Guard so effective in grappling? It all boils down to one thing that is at the essence of the position: it is a trap system, rather than a control-and-domination one. And we don’t have many guard positions like that in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
For the most part, we tend to use submission-based positions as traps — the Kimura trap, guillotine, triangle-armbar, etc. We then build on these with sweeps, passes, and/or takedowns to end in a position of dominance and finish the submission we’re already hanging on to.
With the K Guard, you get all this, but you’re not limited to one submission. It has the clutter-free effectiveness of a submission position (as opposed to mount or back mount), but also the access to various immediate attacks that only a high-scoring position in BJJ offers. This perfect blend is outlined in great detail in the Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD.
Time to blast your way through everyone by playing just one position off your back! A few days of going through the Shotgun K Guard Mateusz Szczeciński DVD, followed by a few weeks — or even better, months — of deliberate training and focused drilling, is all you need to become just as fearsome as Mateusz Szczeciński is. It’s all within your grasp — get the DVD now!
A 23-year-old man has been awarded $46 million after suffering life-altering spinal injuries during a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class in Del Mar, California.
The staggering verdict has sent shockwaves through the grappling world, raising questions about coaching standards, liability, and the safety protocols at BJJ schools nationwide.
Now, in June 2025, the California Supreme Court declined to review the civil jury verdict, with the amount rising to exceed $56 million.
The BJJ Injury Lawsuit That Shook California
The martial arts world is reeling after a jury awarded a paralyzed BJJ student $46 million in damages, concluding a high-profile BJJ injury lawsuit that stemmed from a catastrophic training accident in 2018.
The incident occurred at the Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club, where then-20-year-old Jack Greener was participating in a class under the guidance of instructor Francisco Iturralde, a second-degree black belt.
According to court records, Greener was left quadriplegic after the instructor’s full body weight came down on him, crushing the vertebrae in his neck. This allegedly happened during a sparring session.
Greener ‘s legal team argued that he was unaware of the potential risks of the move and that no proper safety precautions were taken. The jury agreed, awarding compensation for both current and future medical expenses, loss of quality of life, and emotional distress.
Following a four-week trial, the jury returned its decision on March 28, 2023, awarding the plaintiff $46,475,112.33 to cover extensive medical treatment, lost future income, and the immense toll of lifelong disability.
Final Judgment Reaches $56 Million After Supreme Court Declines Review
The defense maintained that Greener willingly engaged in the technique and knew the risks. But the court found otherwise, pointing to what it considered a lack of informed consent and instructor recklessness.
The maneuver in question was reportedly a takedown involving a trip and sudden downward force — a staple in many BJJ curriculums, but one that requires exceptional control and communication. The plaintiff’s attorneys said neither was present.
The legal battle surrounding this landmark BJJ injury lawsuit officially reached its end when the California Supreme Court declined to review the case—cementing a San Diego County jury’s decision to award more than $46 million to the injured student.
With accrued post-judgment interest, the final compensation now surpasses $56 million, making it one of the most significant sports injury verdicts in state history.
Legal experts now regard the verdict as a pivotal ruling that reinforces how instructors and training facilities can be held accountable when their actions exceed the assumed risks inherent in martial arts practice.
How One BJJ Injury Lawsuit Could Redefine Jiu-Jitsu Liability
This BJJ injury lawsuit isn’t the first of its kind — but it is, by far, the largest known verdict for a Jiu-Jitsu-related injury in U.S. history. The scale of the compensation reflects growing awareness around the legal implications of injury in combat sports.
The final appellate court’s ruling cements a critical legal victory not only for our client, but also for injured athletes across California by reaffirming that sports instructors and facilities may be held accountable when they unreasonably increase risks beyond those inherent in the sport. – Rahul Ravipudi, Greener’s Attorney –
Combat sports have long existed in a legal gray area when it comes to training injuries. Participants sign waivers, but courts have increasingly ruled that such waivers do not cover gross negligence or reckless instruction.
Coaching Culture Comes Under Scrutiny
The case has reignited conversations about the culture of toughness in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, particularly how instructors interact with newer students. Critics argue that a “harden-up” mentality, especially when applied in high-level academies, may compromise safety.
Social media commentary surrounding the BJJ injury lawsuit has been split. While many express sympathy for Greener, others worry about the chilling effect such lawsuits may have on the art itself.
If coaches are scared to teach takedowns, what happens to the integrity of Jiu-Jitsu as a martial art? – Reddit BJJ user –
Insurance and Liability in BJJ Gyms
This case may open the floodgates for similar legal actions. Many small academies lack comprehensive liability coverage, and a verdict like this could spell bankruptcy for those unprepared.
Lawyers specializing in sports law say it’s likely we’ll see a rise in more stringent safety protocols — and possibly even reform in BJJ instructor certifications.
Some in the community are now calling for standardized instructor training, arguing that as the sport grows, so too should its legal and ethical responsibilities.
Tap or Snap? This Case Just Changed the Risk Equation
Greener, now paralyzed from the neck down, expressed mixed emotions about the win. His legal team says the money will cover a lifetime of medical care, but no dollar amount can reverse the damage.
As Jiu-Jitsu explodes in popularity thanks to social media and celebrity endorsements, this BJJ injury lawsuit is a sobering reminder: BJJ safety must scale with growth.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was designed to empower the weak against the strong. In order for the art to continue serving those who need it most, the safety of our students must always remain our top priority. This verdict is a step in the right direction. – Rener Gracie –
The $46 million BJJ injury lawsuit verdict is more than just a headline — it’s a landmark in the martial arts legal landscape. As the sport continues to rise, so too must its standards for safety, transparency, and accountability.
A 17-year-old girl’s Reddit post claiming her married Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach has a crush on her has gone viral, prompting a wave of concern, outrage, and debate across the grappling community.
As the sport continues to grow, so do calls for better coach-student boundaries, oversight, and accountability within gyms.
This is not the first BJJ coach scandal of this kind, with a worrying trend noticeable in the sport.
The Post That Set the BJJ World on Fire
In a post that’s now making the rounds on every major BJJ forum and social media outlet, a 17-year-old girl took to Reddit’s r/bjj subreddit to ask for advice on an increasingly uncomfortable situation: her married Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach allegedly has a crush on her.
According to the user, her coach is a 30-year-old man who has allegedly been pursuing her despite their significant age gap—and her underage status.
The student claims the coach has used flirty text messages, subtle (and not-so-subtle) compliments, and increasingly intimate interactions in class.
What started as praise for her technique, she says, has escalated into comments about her appearance and lingering touches during drills.
Though she stopped short of accusing him of outright harassment, the implications of her post were unmistakable—and the BJJ community took notice.
A Scary Pattern the Sport Can’t Ignore
The alleged situation echoes a recurring issue in martial arts: the abuse of power by instructors in a setting that requires physical trust and authority. The vulnerability created by age, rank, and physical proximity in grappling makes lines easier to blur—and easier to cross.
The controversy has reignited long-simmering concerns about BJJ culture enabling inappropriate coach-student dynamics.
The belt system creates an automatic power hierarchy. When you pair that with age gaps and close physical training, it can easily become a recipe for abuse. – Anonymous Reddit user –
BJJ gyms often operate with minimal regulation compared to other sports institutions. Without standardized safeguards or mandatory coaching certifications, students—especially minors—are sometimes left without proper protection or recourse.
A Married Coach and a Minor: The Ethical Firestorm
Much of the outrage stems from the fact that the alleged coach is married, in addition to the troubling age gap.
Even in the absence of explicit misconduct, many users questioned why a 30-year-old man in a position of authority would be engaging in emotionally charged, inappropriate behavior toward a teenager.
Screenshots of the now-locked Reddit thread show dozens of users urging the poster to find another gym and speak to trusted adults.
If even a fraction of this is true, it’s a massive breach of boundaries and totally unacceptable. Leave the gym. Tell your parents. Tell someone. – Reddit commenter –
Others went further, calling for gym owners and federation leaders to implement clearer policies and reporting mechanisms for these types of situations.
The Fallout Is Far From Over
As BJJ expands globally and professionalizes, it’s entering a new phase of scrutiny. High-profile incidents of misconduct, grooming, and abuse have emerged more frequently in recent years. Each one puts more pressure on the sport to regulate itself—before external institutions are forced to intervene.
In this case, the Reddit poster’s anonymity has made fact-checking difficult, but the sheer scale of the reaction shows how widespread the concern is.
Hundreds of practitioners from all ranks and affiliations have weighed in, calling for cultural shifts in how coaches are trained, monitored, and held accountable.
There should be a zero-tolerance policy for instructors hitting on underage students. We need safeguards. This is happening way too often in BJJ. – BJJ purple belt and youth instructor
So far, there’s no confirmation of the gym’s name or the coach’s identity. But the story has clearly struck a nerve. Posts like this don’t just go viral—they resurface in people’s minds the next time someone in the gym “gets too friendly.”
The girl who posted it may not have intended to launch a movement. But she may have just become the face of a new conversation that BJJ desperately needs to have.
Latest BJJ Coach Scandal Sparks a Much-Needed Reckoning
The BJJ coach scandal involving the alleged pursuit of a 17-year-old student by her married instructor has rocked the online grappling world—and it’s more than just Reddit drama. It’s a wake-up call for the sport to create real accountability structures before these uncomfortable stories become permanent stains.
At just 17 years old, Helena Crevar has officially received her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt — and not from just anyone, but from legendary coach John Danaher.
The Helena Crevar black belt promotion took place at Kingsway Jiu-Jitsu, formerly known as New Wave, and it marks a symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation of elite female grapplers.
Helena is now John Danaher’s first-ever female black belt.
Grappling’s Teenage Prodigy Gets the Black Belt Nod from Danaher
In a moment as historic as it was inevitable, Helena Crevar’s black belt promotion was announced this week by none other than John Danaher himself.
The 17-year-old has been dominating elite-level opponents in no-gi tournaments for the past two years, racking up submissions and superfight wins with a fearlessness that defies her age.
Danaher — known for shaping the likes of Gordon Ryan, Garry Tonon, and Nicky Rodriguez — doesn’t hand out belts lightly. His student promotions are deliberate and often years apart. Which is why Crevar’s ascension has caused such a stir.
There is no one who deserves it more than @helenajiujitsugirl. She is here every day, twice a day, 7 days a week. She never complains, always trains hard, and is here the morning after big competitions. – Gordon Ryan –
This Isn’t Just Another Black Belt
It’s not every day a teen BJJ prodigy receives a black belt from the most respected mind in modern jiu-jitsu.
But for Helena Crevar, whose career includes appearances on Who’s Number One, Polaris, and several top submission-only cards, this was more than just a ceremonial milestone — it was validation.
Crevar made waves for being one of the few teens competing (and winning) against seasoned black belts before officially holding the rank herself. She’s faced and submitted names years older, often stepping in as a late replacement or underdog, and proving she belongs at the top tier.
Today is one of the most special days for me and in my jiujitsu career, that I’ll remember and cherish as one of the most meaningful moments for the rest of my life – Helena Crevar –
The First Female John Danaher Black Belt
The black belt promotion wasn’t livestreamed, hyped, or broadcast on a podcast — it came via a single photo on social media, posted by Crevar with her signature smile and Danaher standing beside her. Subtle? Yes. But its implications for the sport are anything but.
For Kingsway Jiu-Jitsu, the team formerly known as New Wave, it’s the latest move in a rebranding effort that seems to signal a focus on developing future stars rather than relying solely on legacy names.
It also comes during a period where Danaher himself has been stepping back from day-to-day coaching duties due to ongoing surgeries, making his presence and endorsement all the more significant.
We all got to watch history today as John Danaher, after 30 years of Jiu-Jitsu, promoted his 1st female black belt. – Gordon Ryan –
What This Means for Women in BJJ
Crevar’s promotion also reopens the conversation around women in BJJ — not just as competitors, but as centerpieces in elite teams. Her black belt isn’t an outlier; it’s a forecast.
The women’s divisions have been heating up in recent years thanks to athletes like Ffion Davies, Elisabeth Clay, and Brianna Ste-Marie. But Crevar, with her youth and star power, could soon surpass them in mainstream recognition.
She’s already shown a flair for both self-promotion and submission-hunting, a deadly combo in today’s grappling ecosystem. And now, after the Helena Crevar black belt promotion, sponsorships, superfights, and perhaps even mixed-rules bouts are definitely in her future.
I’ve been competing with black belts since I was 14 years old and a green belt whenever competitions allowed me and now I’m officially a black belt, so I can’t wait to step on the mats as a black belt and make my team proud! – Helena Crevar –
Helena Crevar Black Belt Promotion Is Just the Beginning
The Helena Crevar black belt moment may seem like the closing of a chapter — but it’s actually the start of something far bigger. With her new rank and Danaher’s stamp of approval, she’s now on a collision course with the top athletes in her division.
Whether she chooses to focus on submission grappling, jump into ADCC, or test herself in other formats, one thing is certain: she’s no longer the underdog teen with a blue or purple belt. She’s a black belt — and now the target on her back just got bigger.
Guard retention is the silver bullet that everyone looks for in a guard game. The problem is that most people disregard it as something that doesn’t matter much, as it is not inherently attack-minded behavior. That leads to what I call the “limpy guard syndrome,” which is why most guards you try fail.
Instructionals like the Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD that focus on this issue are not rare — people just avoid them because they think they’ll be boring before they even give them a chance. Well, this one, filled with concepts, eco games, counterattacks, and different guards, is anything but, which you’ll find out if you’re smart enough to pick it up.
Playing Modern Guards
These days, guard attention is only directed at how to overcomplicate attacks. That is okay, I guess, if you’re into all the fancy moves that won’t work live, but it leaves a much bigger and very serious problem behind — guard awareness.
Most people seem to think of the guard as a magical position that, once you get to, you can attack from without any effort or work. Once this inevitably fails, the fault lies with the opponent (going too hard), the instructor (didn’t explain it clearly), or the instructional (stuff doesn’t work).
Nobody really looks at themselves — the reason your guard failed is that it wasn’t a guard; it was just a configuration you set up while sitting or lying. So, what is a guard that works then? Easy answer — the guard that the top person can’t just brush off and pass is an effective guard. More about this in the Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD.
Chris Wojcik – B-Team’s Grappling Wordsmith
Chris “Woj” Wojcik is a name on the rise in the BJJ world. So far, you either know him for his leg locks, which include his signature Woj Lock, or his GrapplersDiary exploits, where he shares everyday grappling thoughts, conclusions, and revelations.
Some may even know him from his instructionals, which number three, along with his latest edition on guard retention that we’re covering today. With both previous Chris Wojcik BJJ instructional DVDs dubbed bestsellers, this third one has big expectations to fulfill, with a bar set fairly high for such a young grappler.
Originally from London, Wojcik spent a lot of time grappling in Chicago before deciding to call Austin home. A black belt under Jeff Serafin (Helio Gracie lineage via Megaton) since 2022, Chris still has to win a major tournament, but he’s already shown what he is about in ADCC Trials and the No-Gi Worlds, beating the likes of Ben Eddy and Rafael Feitosa.
Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD Review
This Chris Wojcik DVD is a No-Gi instructional, offering principles, concepts, techniques, and ecological games over the course of almost three hours. The material is spread and organized into five different volumes:
Part 1 – Disrupting Attacks
This is not your average guard retention BJJ instructional. The Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD starts off very strong — with a general approach to the key things you need to focus on when aiming to retain your guard.
He goes over things that go well beyond specific techniques, such as denying grips, setting up anchors that prevent the passer from going forward, blending pushing and pulling for maximum effectiveness, and the like. You get the point.
The best concept of the volume? Dominating the five extremities before you decide to attack. Woj shares tactics on implementing it against standing, half-kneeling, and kneeling opponents.
Part 2 – Supine Guard Tactics
Once you’re on your back, the Chris Wojcik Don’t Get Passed DVD becomes super important — this is where guard retention should be at the top of your list of priorities. Chris gets this, so he starts off with the concept of J-camping, allowing you to retain your guard without having to endure constant pressure.
After the first couple of chapters covering details on supine guard positioning, it’s all live work in this part of the DVD. Chris shares drills/games that place you at various stages of a pass (leg drag, body lock, double unders, etc.), and you get to test out his concepts while fighting to stop the pass.
Part 3 – K-Guard Madness
Everyone’s favorite No-Gi guard is the main focus in the third part of the Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD. Since the guard works perfectly against both standing and kneeling opponents, Chris goes over these two iterations first before moving on to counterattacks that only work if the top person is trying to pass.
You’ll get crazy details on one of B-Team’s signature moves — the shotgun armbar — as well as Wojcik’s full array of leg lock finishes that work from a knee reap. There’s also a very cool bit on the reverse K-guard.
Part 4 – Spinning Under & Inversions
This volume of the Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD is for all the inversion lovers and dedicated DLR enthusiasts. The usual suspects like Kiss of the Dragon, spinning into 50/50, and backdoor back takes appear here. Nothing special.
The monotony of stuff we’ve seen and done already is broken by interesting dilemma situations: arm drags or leg locks, push or pull, upper or lower attacks, back takes or Ashi Garami, wrestling or heel hooks… Very original and super easy to understand and implement immediately into your training.
Part 5 – Training Ecologically
Part five is where Chris really does something nobody has ever done successfully. He shares Eco-style training games that are going to make even the most hardcore drill-to-kill fellas happy.
Ending in style, the final part of the Chris Wojcik Don’t Get Passed DVD offers just over half an hour of games that focus on connections during guard retention and when to launch counterattacks. The only way to learn effectively, if we’re being honest
Systems and Strategies for Guard Players
Take your pick. It won’t really matter which strategy you choose or what guard system you play. The foundation is still going to be retention — how long you can stay in a specific guard. Which guard is up to you.
The Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD makes this clear by exploring a few different guards, going from the RDL to the K-guard, switching between seated and supine positions. It just goes to show that the tactical approach Woj teaches transcends specific guard positions and systems, which is the only kind of content you want to look at these days as a grappler.
Whether you decide to build a counterattacking, trap-filled game like the one Chris demonstrates, or you’re more of a traditional stall-and-attack guard player, the same hard truth is always going to determine your success: can you keep your opponent from passing the legs?
If you suffer from limpy guard syndrome, then you’ll definitely benefit immensely from the Don’t Get Passed Chris Wojcik DVD. Even if you have strong guard retention skills, the games and training setups Wojcik offers are going to provide you with different dimensions of training and, eventually, a better guard game.
