In a bizarre turn of events, UFC star Brian Ortega took his online gaming rivalry to a whole new level by flying cross-country to confront a fan who had been trash-talking him during Fortnite matches. This unexpected encounter has captured the attention of both the MMA and gaming communities, highlighting the unpredictable nature of online interactions.
Brian Ortega Shows Up at a Fan’s Workplace ‘We Made a Bet’
The story began with Ortega, known for his exceptional submission skills inside the octagon, receiving numerous requests from fans to play Fortnite with him. While most interactions were friendly, one particular player’s behavior crossed the line, prompting UFC fighter Brian Ortega to take action.
The fan, who had been talking trash during their matches, challenged Ortega to a bet: if Ortega lost, he would fly to North Carolina to confront him. True to his word, Ortega made the journey, showing up at the fan’s workplace and waiting for him to finish his shift.
“People ask me ‘hey play with me on Fortnite, play with me on Fortnite.’ Only problem is you guys be talking mad.”said Ortega,“The real reason why I flew to North Carolina was because he was talking s**t. We made a bet.”
“I showed up to his damn job and I had to wait for him to finish his job. So now, ‘Imma choke your a out. A bet’s a bet!”
In a recorded interaction where Brian Ortega chokes fan out, he can be heard telling the fan, “I’m gonna choke your ass out,” to which the fan responded, “That’s a bet, dog.”Ortega then instructed the fan to put his hands up, signaling the start of the submission attempt.
Brian Ortega flew out to North Carolina to choke out someone who was talking trash to him on Fortnite 😭
‘Still Want to Play With Me ?? Lol Bets be Crazy!’
The video shows Ortega executing a flawless chokehold, putting the fan to sleep. After the incident, the fan admitted, “I took a nap man. Hey, f*king s*$t feel weird man.”
The video of the confrontation quickly went viral, sparking a mix of reactions from fans and fellow fighters. While some praised Ortega for standing up to online bullying, others questioned the appropriateness of his actions.
After the Brian Ortega Fortnite choke video of the bet went viral, Ortega declared on X: ‘Still Want to Play With Me ?? Lol Bets be Crazy!’ I doubt any more Fortnite players will decide to try their luck against a UFC fighter anytime soon.
Brian Ortega’s cross-country confrontation serves as a reminder that online interactions can have real-world consequences. His actions have reignited discussions about the boundaries between virtual and physical worlds, and the responsibilities of public figures in handling online conflicts.
As we wait to see Ortega’s next performance in the UFC featherweight division, this incident will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the more unusual chapters in his journey.
Mixed Year for Ortega
Choking out his Fortnite rival is one of the top highlights of 2024 for Brian Ortega. He had a mixed year in the octagon, finally taking his revenge on Yair Rodriguez in a bout at UFC Fight Nigth 37, where he emerged the winner by way of submission in the third round.
His next performance saw him lose to Diego Lopes via a decision at UFC 306 in a bout that he had to pull out of originally for the UFC 303 event in July, stating illness as his reason for withdrawal. At the moment he doesn’t have a fight booked.
Final Thoughts
Looking ahead, Ortega has announced plans to move up to the lightweight division. He stated that the featherweight title path is uncertain due to the growing list of contenders, and he believes moving to 155 pounds is the best career decision.
Ortega is excited about the possibility of facing tough opponents like Charles Oliveira, whom he admires for his resilience and success. We already know that he can choke out people larger than him, don’t we?
“Get the back!” This is one of the most common things shouted out at your average BJJ tournament everywhere in the world. Yet, many of the results for competitors trying to heed this advice usually end up in failure to achieve it. And it all has to do with how you set up to get there.
It is one thing to see the back and get it in an opportunistic fashion, It is another thing completely to create openings that are hard to block from all kinds of positions, top and bottom. That is exactly what the Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD attempts, and to a certain point, succeeds in delivering.
The Two End-Ranges of Back Attacks
You all know what back attacks are, but do you know what the two most difficult aspects of executing them from start to finish are? You probably do, but I’m going to tell you anyway, in a manner that hopefully puts things into perspective and clears up a few misconceptions.
The one huge aspect of back attacks that is immensely difficult to do is finish a submission from the back. Many people take the position for granted, thinking that they’re guaranteed a finish simply by getting the hooks and winning the grip fight. Well, there’s lots to do still, particularly if the person defending isn’t trying to escape but only trying to stop submissions.
Another key area that defines your success with back attacks is creating the optimal opening to go for the hooks and harness in the first place. People ‘jump’ to the back hoping for the best, but that’s like trying to jump in a pool without seeing where the pool is – doesn’t make too much sense, does it?
So far, not many instructors have addressed this in their DVDs, although I’ve seen it covered extensively in seminars and camp classes. The Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD is filling that void now, with plenty of very useful information that stops at back exposure.
BJJ Wonderboy Luke Griffith
Looking in from the outside, one gets the impression that everyone over at New Wave Jiu-Jitsu, from Danaher to the cleaning lady, has made an instructional. Long-winded DVDs about everything and the kitchen sink don’t carry too much value, but there are some hidden gems among all the rustle.
Most of those in the BJJ World who are not die-hard competitors probably don’t consider Luke Griffith to be someone worth looking into, especially when they find out he is “only” a brown belt. However, those who are aware of the young South African’s performances, know that there is a lot to be learned from the 23-year-old.
The two-time ADCC trials winner and multiple-time World and Pan champion (colored belts, of course) took the grappling competition circuit by storm a couple of years ago and has been constantly growing since. He’s already beaten some big names such as Oliver Taza, Kaynan Duarte, and Rida Haisam.
A master of back attacks Griffith is notoriously hard to shake off, both because he weighs more than 220lbs, and because he has incredible technique and tactic when it comes to the back mount. He talks about it in great detail in the Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD.
Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD Review
I love the fact that Luke Griffith managed to stay true to the title of this instructional and only focus on creating exposure that might lead to back takes, and not talk about hooks, chokes, and actual back attacks incisively.
The Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD consists of five volumes, each targeting a different aspect of the subject. The combined length of all the volumes reaches just over three and a half hours.
Part 1 – Standing Back Exposure Tactics
One aspect of the standing game in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is that people often disregard the back as a viable attacking option. The first part of the Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD does a great job of shining a very important light on this aspect of the standing game.
Luke shares his basic concepts of attack, immediately launching into coverage of New Wave team classics in the form of Kouchi and Ouchi attacks that led to snapdowns. Throughout the volume, he uses takedown threats to ensure he gets on the outside and can expose the back.
Techniques covered in this one offer something for everyone in terms of technical versatility and preferences: Underhooks, slidebys, overties, duck under and some nice Judo hip throws. I was particularly keen on rewatching the knee block shuck over and over again.
Part 2 – Passing to the Back
A volume that offers all the usual methods we see New Wave competitors employ, but simplified. This Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD is like asking ChatGPT to dumb things down for a 12-year-old, only covering what’s really important and works from Danaher’s complex systems.
Torreando passes open up the chapters in this volume, closely followed by the pins that you should focus on during the pass so that you get back exposure without any effort. Stacking, shin pins, and the body lock feature are the stars here.
The front end of back attacks, which is mounted, also makes an appearance here, along with a few side control options to round off the list of positions that you can use to create back exposure from the top.
Part 3 – Drag-Based Bottom Setups
I enjoyed this part of the Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD a lot. I was ready to call it my favorite, but there’s something in the next volumes that convinced me otherwise. That places this portion of the instructional as a close second.
In it, Griffith uses the concept of arm drags, more precisely the hip heisting drags to twist the top person’s spine, while breaking their balance, resulting in an exposed back. Luke throws a host of different options at us here, from diagonal tosses to cat-like kickflip twists.
Toward the end, he uses a lot of DLR guard to launch inverted attacks that end up creating back attack options. The final couple of chapters address half guard arm dargs on both sides.
Part 4 – Ashi Garami to the Back
My undeniably favorite part of the Luke Griffith Back DVD is the one that beat drags for the title. Most people only see back attacks as a way to counter leg locks, but Luke now explains where to look for the back when you’re the one attacking the Ashi.
Most of the focus is on cross-ashi, with the 50/50 dominating as the optimal position for creating back exposure. Griffith uses Ashi bolos, which are basically inversions from Ashi Garami to open up the back.
As it turns out these Ashi bolos do the trick not just from the 50/50, but also Outside Ashi and Cross Ashi variations. I can’t pick a favorite chapter from this one – I liked them all.
Part 5 – Attacking the Turtle
I can’t blame Luke for the fallacies in this part, as he bases all his instructions on what he’s been taught by John and Gordon, and his competitive success with it. However, against people who are true masters of the defensive turtle, none of the stuff in this part is going to work.
Since those folks are still kind of scarce, you’ll probably be able to pull off some of the turtle breakdowns Griffith delivers in this final part of the Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD. I wouldn’t bet on them working on a high-level defense expert, though.
The perspective of attacking just to create exposure, which runs as the hero focuses through this DVD flawlessly, looks into inserting claw grips and tight waist control before attacking from different angles, mostly diagonal ones. Wrestling has many defensive answers to these threats though, so I remain unconvinced.
Think Back, Do Everything
So many good things happen when you get your opponent to panic. But how can you get someone who’s done BJJ for so long to mess up when you want them to? Threatening with something that’s proven to be dangerous for everyone seems to do the trick for me.
Trying to create an opening for back attacks is the perfect example. How many times have you gotten the chance to set up guillotines off of arm drags from the guard that originally aimed to open up a route to the back? Another commonly seen scenario is people turning into you as you try to get behind when standing, resulting in a buffet of different takedown options.
Approaching BJJ exchanges like this goes past creating dilemmas. You’re actually going for the back, and you know you need to create exposure in order to get it. During this exposure creation phase, all of BJJ opens up to you, especially if your opponent notices what you’re doing. Plenty of this is covered in the Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD.
The back is one of the best spots to be in grappling, and you’ll quickly figure out how to stay there for prolonged periods once you start practicing it more. However, finishing and creating the initial exposure is going to take a lot more time on the mats.
For this last one, exposure, you can speed up the process of understanding and learning using the Creating Back Exposure Luke Griffith DVD. It has its drawbacks but overall, is a great example of how to approach the subject of creating openings for back attacks.
Mackenzie Dern, the renowned UFC strawweight fighter and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu phenom, has once again captured the world’s attention. This time, it’s not for her prowess in the octagon, but for a series of provocative undergarment photos that have gone viral. The Mackenzie Dern photoshoot is a project with renowned avant-garde photographer Juan Cardenas.
Nothing Like a Mackenzie Dern Photoshoot To Make Your Day
On January 29, 2025, Mackenzie Dern’s photoshoot took the internet by storm. The images, which feature Dern in a series of stylish and provocative undergarments, highlight her athletic physique and undeniable presence.
The photoshoot was a bold move, showcasing a different side of the 31-year-old BJJ black belt that fans and followers wanted to see. She’s done similar shoots before, but it’s always welcome to add to those collections, especially with shots like these!
Juan Cardenas is a photographer whose work is popular and sought after, mostly operating on the Las Vegas art scene, where he has earned a nomination for the prestigious Featured Artist at the Las Vegas First Friday Festival in 2019.
The response was overwhelmingly positive, with social media buzzing about her stunning transformation from fighter to fashion icon. You can see all the photos below, at the end of this article. Here’s a treat:
Dern’s 2025: Huge Win, Emotional Support Dog, Making UFC History
While the photoshoot has garnered significant attention, it’s essential to recognize Dern’s accomplishments in the octagon this year.
In January, she avenged her 2019 loss to Amanda Ribas with a spectacular armbar submission victory. This win not only marked her redemption but also solidified her position as a top contender in the UFC strawweight division.
During this stellar performance in the octagon, Dern became the 12th woman in UFC history to earn 10 wins in her career, showcasing her consistency and skill., and joining an elite club.
She also caught lots of attention by bringing her emotional support dog to the UFC press conferences during fight week, stating emotional imbalances as the main reason:
“He helps me a lot just being comfortable and I’m kind of trying to stay as calm as I can,” Dern shared. “I think what I’m most needing in my fights is composure, and to kind of just go into the Apex one more time and just feel like it’s a training session.”
Balancing her professional career with motherhood, Dern continues to inspire with her dedication to both her sport and her family. We expect a strawweight title shot to come her way during 2025 as well.
“He [the dog] goes to the gym with me and everything like that and Moa [her child] is going to be here on Friday,” added Dern. “So it’s kind of the best way to just keep me relaxed and not getting all my nerves up too high.”
Mackenzie Dern’s Lingerie Photoshoot
The viral photoshoot has not only elevated Dern’s profile but also sparked conversations about the intersection of athleticism and femininity. The photo shoot serves as a reminder that athletes can be multifaceted, breaking boundaries both inside and outside the arena. Enjoy the images:
Nobody starts training BJJ to learn how to wristlock people. However, once you tap to a wristlock or two (or several hundred), you’ll have to accept the cold, hard truth that wristlocks are here to stay in Jiu-Jitsu, and you need to hop on the wrist locking wagon sooner rather than later.
So far, Pete the Greek has been an invaluable source of expert wrist-locking information. He keeps up with that trend, now presenting his Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD, which is pretty self-explanatory by the title alone. I’ll add that it is probably his best instructional on the subject to date. Interested?
The Submission Everyone Loves to Hate
People hate wristlocks in BJJ. Well, most people. The only folks who don’t resent these sneaky and painful finishes are the ones who do them. In that regard, wristlocks are just as addictive as heel hooks and buggy chokes – once you pick them up, you won’t want to stop doing them.
Writslocks are one of those moves that act as great equalizers. Our opponent can be as big as they want and with decades of experience, but you can still pull off a wristlock finish if you understand how. This brings us to the main reason why wristlocks are not more widespread in BJJ (well, the main reason apart from being hated as shortcuts).
Namely, when people hear wristlocks, they think there’s nothing to it, and start thinking like they’re emulating Steven Seagal. Since we all know how “effective” Aikido is, if you really want to learn effective wristlocks, you need to figure out how they work in the chaos of BJJ.
With plenty of proof out there that wristlocks work, the easiest and fastest way to add them to your arsenal is to learn the basics from the man who is best at them. That man is Pete the Greek, and if I had to pick one of his wristlock instructionals to start with, it would be the Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD.
Wristlock Guru Pete ‘The Greek’ Letsos
If you’d like to learn wristlocks that work in BJJ, then Pete the Greek is your man. There is nobody else (I’ve checked) who understands writ locks to the level of detail that Pete Letsos does, particularly when we’re talking about using them for Jiu-Jitsu purposes.
So, how did Pete become this world-renowned wristlock guru? Well, the Carlson Gracie Jr. black belt has been training for about 30 years, beginning in 1996 at Carlsong Gracie’s gym in Chicago. He also spent 4 years in Brazil, training at the team’s HQ academy but also at all other gyms he could find, like Gracie Barra, BJJ Top Team, and legends such as Terere, Andre Galvao, Osvaldo Alves, etc.
Remember that back in those days, BJJ was as hardcore as it gets, with every roll done with the intensity we now associate with world championship performances. As a lightweight, Pete had to figure out how to stay competitive against all the beasts he shared the mats with.
Along the way, Pete figured out that wristlocks are his best friend. Known for an incredibly aggressive top game, Pete perfected wristlocks from everywhere, but so far, has not talked a lot about the particular ways he has used them when passing. His brand new Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD delves into this murky territory.
Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD Review
The Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD is a three-part No-Gi instructional lasting around two hours and offering details on finishing wristlocks that nobody but Pete the Greek can provide:
Part 1 – Standing Wristlocks
The Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD begins standing, with ‘the Greek” offering legitimate ways of using wristlocks to your advantage. While at very first glance it may seem as if this is going into Aikido waters, it quickly becomes clear how painful the finishes are, mostly from the facial expressions of pain on Pete’s Uke.
There are lots of wrestling elements used in this part, with snap downs, Russian ties, and double wrist ties paving the way for snappy wristlock finishes that get taps in fractions of a second. Along with key finishing details, Pete also covers several options to hit wristlocks from a standing Kimura, which I found very interesting.
Part 2 – Wristlocks from Top Side Control
The gist of this instructional happens in top side control, with Letsos delivering the majority of his material from variations of this position. He begins by exploring the different ways to attack wristlocks on pinned arms, offering options for both the far and near arms.
He builds on that by exploring how to get wristlocks from positions and attacks you’re probably already using from top side control, such as the Americana, neck frame, undertook, etc. A few malevolently sneaky bait setups also feature here.
As the second volume of the Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD unfolds, he goes into counter-attacking with wristlocks, reacting to common side control escapes. The cherries on top are a few short but sweet options for wristlocks from the Kesa Gatame and Crucifix positions.
Part 3 – Top Half, Mount & Knee on Belly Finishes
Finally, the true art of being a sneaky wrist locker gets exposed by Pete as he provides incredibly effective options to finish from very dominant positions when you can’t seem to pull another submission off.
This volume is as conceptual as it is precise, with Pete focusing on the key elements that work from both mount and top half guard, such as chest pressure, posture, and balance. He then focuses on pinning and attacking the top arm of the opponent, either directly or through counters, such as the one on destroying a hip post.
Wrapping up the Pete Letsos Wristlocks DVD are a few direct details on finishing from the technical mount, as well as an unstoppable wristlock from a top armbar position. This last one is particularly painful and fast.
The Ultimate Opportunity Creator
I have an Aikido black belt in my gym that uses wristlocks. he rarely gets taps with them since he is dead set on trying to prove Aikido works, but that’s beside the point. His success with them mainly comes through opportunities that present themselves when people use all their attention to defend wristlocks in a state of pure panic.
This is one of the main areas in which wristlocks can immediately improve your Jiu-Jitsu game. Struggling with an armbar? Wristlock. Can’t finish that triangle – same answer. Passing, sweeping, pinning even takedowns, whenever things seem to stall, threaten with a wristlock
Understandably, you have to be able to use wristlocks as a legitimate threat to pull all this off, which is where the Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD comes in. That Aikido guy I am talking about is extremely good at opening up takedowns off of any grip using wristlock threats that funnel people exactly where he wants them. Just food for thought.
There’s really no better phrase than this one, used by Pete in all his wristlock instructions so far! You really can wristlock anyone (except maybe Pete) if you play your cards right. When you’re cruising on top, though, there’s hardly a better way to open up your opponent more, or keep them pinned with ease than applying any (or all) of the options presented in the Wristlocks From The Top Pete Letsos DVD. They all work with and without the Gi and are legal (for blue belts and above).
The closed guard is the one position in BJJ that you’ll never stop using. So, since you’ll be in it anyway, why not make it work? By that, I mean really work, like a flytrap filled with venomous spikes but with added electrical currents running through it at the same time.
For that, you need someone who can teach you how to play the closed guard stuff you already know with a different set of goals and checkpoints. The Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD features exactly that, guided by the mind of one of the most innovative coaches in BJJ when it comes to effectiveness.
Make your Closed Guard Uncomfortable
Just to make things clear, the idea is to have your closed guard be uncomfortable for the top person, not yourself. I see too many people who just cross their legs, maybe get a grip on a sleeve or collar, and hang out there believing in the mystical power of the closed guard.
Well, news flash – getting to the closed guard alone doesn’t mean you get to channel Helio Gracie’s ghost to help you dominate. You’re actually going to need to put in work, and that work begins when you place pressure on the person you have in your closed guard.
Yes, pressure from bottom positions is a thing, but that’s a subject for a different time. For now, let’s just call it discomfort, and let’s get you to think about it. The next time you claw your way to a closed guard, stop thinking you can just sweep or submit.
Instead, try to make your opponent as uncomfortable as possible from the position, without risking giving away a pass. One look at the Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD and you’ll get a heap of ideas on how to do it.
The Quirky Efficiency of Malachy Friedman
When someone comes from a legendary old-school lineage, such as that of Carlson Gracie, you expect effective, simple Jiu-Jitsu, based on aggressiveness and domination. Ricardo Liborio’s black belt Malachy Friedman is kind of an outlier in that regard.
Don’t get me wrong he has all the key qualities of a Carlson Gracie standout – he is methodical, relentless, keeps stuff simple, and dominates. But he does it in his own, quirky way, kind of like when a mad scientist makes you a cup of coffee.
The ex-member of the American Top Team knows perfectly what it takes to make your Jiu-Jitsu work against world champions, proven by the fact we’ve seen him in the corner of plenty of UFC, IBJJF, and ADCC champs to date.
At present, Malachy is running his own Black Label Martial Arts Academy in Charlestown and also has a brand of online instructional series, appropriately dubbed the “Jiu-Jitsu MadLab“. In there, he cooks up original recipes, such as his Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD.
Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD Review
The Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD offers a ton of closed guard moves, chains, systems, and tactics. It lasts for nearly 3 hours and, as you’ll see from out Malachy Friedman DVD review, is organized meticulously over the course of four volumes:
Part 1 – Attacking Posture & Kimura System
This instructional has lots of everything in terms of options from the closed guard. While quite elaborate in terms of the number of techniques, Friedman manages to keep everything neatly organized, offering ways to systematize the content in each volume.
The first one is all about understanding the importance of dealing with posture. Malachy offers gi and No-Gi concepts that are closely tied together, as well as resulting follow-ups along the lines of the butt sweep, a series of direct overhook submissions, and a stunningly deceptive back take.
As the opening portion of the Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD gets past its halfway point, Malachy narrows down his focus to the Kimura, offering a mini system that includes sweeps, submissions, and failed Kimura armbar follow-ups.
The best part comes at the very end, setting a very cool trend throughout this entire DVD. Namely, Friedman offers a precise way of taking all the information from this volume and organizing it in a system that will work for anyone.
Part 2 – Scissor Sweep & Lapel Attacks
As we get to the second part of the Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD it already feels like we went through an entire BJJ DVD. However, instead of being overwhelmed with everything but the kitchen sink, the material is actually filtered so that it contains only the most useful.
Another testament to that is the section outlining how to take the scissor sweep to a whole new threat level from the closed guard. He ties it in beautifully before introducing triangles, and a nasty loop choke to create a looping chain.
To my great delight, Friedman also covers the Brabo choke/Brabo closed guard, a lapel-based system of choking, sweeping, and back takes that destroys posture like nothing else from the closed guard. Armbars sprinkled throughout the content as a fail-safe to moves that don’t work out make this instructional the real deal.
Part 3 – Flower Sweep & Omoplatas
Part three of the Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD takes us through some true old-school BJJ classics. First up is the elusive flower sweep a technique that is as simple as much as beginners tend to mess up.
Malachy’s take on it is to remove the hour-long explanation of mechanics and needless details and focus on how to get it to work. Friedman uses everything, from collar grips to laples and even armbar setups to get to the end range of the flower sweep.
Similarly classic and difficult to comprehend for lots of people is the Omoplata, which is again “dumbed down” to a level taht’s easy to make sense of. The usual culprits including sweep, triangle, and Kimura combo feature here, before the signature final chapter on how to create a system using them.
Part 4 – Armbars & Triangles
The only things left for Malachy to cover from the closed guard are… Well actually he covered pretty much everything, but he still has some very neat alternatives to offer for some of the moves already seen so far in the Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD.
Armbars-wise there are spinning, rolling, and counter-attacking setups that will provide an option for literally anyone out there. The re-bite armbar was the one that did it for me. In this part, Malachy offers an armbar system roadmap as he finishes the portion covering them.
The same happens with the triangle, mostly shown from the versatile overhook position. Lots of shoulder locks, from direct attacks, through Kimuras, all the way to the Barataplata turn this system into a nightmare for your opponent. A final set of guidelines on how to create a system out of all these bits of information brings the entire DVD to a close.
Old Guard, New Tricks
The best part about the Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD is that it won’t teach you anything new, but you’ll still be able to pull off stuff from the closed guard that never seemed to work for you before.
In essence, you get to re-learn some of the stuff you think you know, looking at them from a perspective that was lacking until now. You’re literally picking up new tricks to make classic day-one stuff like armbars and butt sweeps work against high-level grapplers with tons of experience.
The secret is in how you approach the exchange with the top person, not in the hundreds of technical details you often hear from your coaches or see in YouTube videos. Getting people uncomfortable and attacking with chains organized in systems is completely going to change how successful you are from the closed guard.
Go for what’s available once you have the person you’re attacking trapped in your spider web. In a gist, that’s what you’ll learn from the Closed Guard Malachy Friedman BJJ DVD. What makes all the difference is the ability to recognize the best available attack and build a system of chains off of it rather than stubbornly trying to set up a painfully obvious attack. That’s the ‘little’ thing your guard has been missing.
Greg Souders, a vocal advocate for ecological training methods in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, has agreed to a live debate with ADCC veterans Dan Manasoiu and Tom DeBlass. This debate is set to ignite the BJJ community, as it pits the innovative ecological approach against traditional training techniques.
Will Souders’ controversial, but very popular views hold up under scrutiny, or will Manasoiu and DeBlass dismantle his arguments? The stage is set for an explosive showdown on Jan 29, which will be streamed live.
Who is Greg Souders?
Greg Souders is a prominent figure in the BJaJ world, known for his strong advocacy of ecological training methods. His approach emphasizes learning through natural, intuitive movements rather than rigid, traditional techniques.
Souders has been a polarizing figure, with some praising his innovative ideas and others criticizing them as undermining the core principles of BJJ. He has also never been shy about expressing his feelings on how the methodology beats the old-school, ‘flawed’ way of teaching BJJ that made the sport popular around the world in the first place.
Eco vs the World: A Looming Debate Challenge
The debate stems from Souders’ recent criticisms of renowned instructor John Danaher’s teaching methods. Well, sort of. Souders never directly attacked Danaher, just argued that his instructional DVDs, particularly the converted leg locks marathon, are repetitive and lack substantive content.
The result was a heated response from Manasoiu, who trains under Danaher. The challenge for a live debate was issued later by Manasoiu, and Souders promptly accepted, setting the stage for a very interesting clash of training ideologies in Jiu-Jitsu.
“This flawed concept has been spreading unchecked in Jiu-Jitsu for too long, and it is time to challenge it head-on. I’m tired of watching it mislead dedicated practitioners and dilute the essence of the sport,” Big Dan announced.
“The entire Jiu-Jitsu community will thank me for finally addressing this and setting the record straight.”
Greg Souders’ acceptance of the debate challenge was met with both applause and skepticism. Some see it as an opportunity to shed light on alternative training methods, while others view it as an unnecessary conflict.
The debate, which is set to be streamed live, promises to be a heated exchange of ideas, with Souders defending his ecological approach against the traditional methods championed by Dan Manasoiu and Tom DeBlass.
Big Dan Manasoiu’s Blistering Critique in Defense of Danaher
Dan Manasoiu, known as “Big Dan,” did not mince words when criticizing Souders. In a series of social media posts, Manasoiu blasted Souders for his arrogance and accused him of disrespecting John Danaher’s legacy.
He claimed that Souders is only “providing misinformation and diluting the essence of the sport with his flawed concept” of the Ecological Approach. Manasoiu’s scathing remarks have only added fuel to the fire, making the upcoming debate one of the most anticipated events in the BJJ community.
“For thousands of years, all of human progress across every culture and discipline has been built on the foundation of passing knowledge down through generations, refining and improving it over time,” Manasoiu wrote on social media.
“This approach completely undermines that tradition, discarding hard-earned wisdom in favor of empty rhetoric that does nothing but confuse and mislead serious practitioners.”
Tom DeBlass Steps In
Tom DeBlass, who seems to have a hand in everything happening in BJJ these days, also shared his views of how Souder’s approach is “flawed” and alludes to Greg as being “arrogant” and his methods “unproven”.
“He has an arrogance about him that is very irritating. Im all about positional training with specific goals in mind. Fight from half guard both people looking for underhooks. Start in the triangle position and look to hold without allowing your opponent to escape while your opponent tries to escape,” shared DeBlass.
“I simply don’t like the arrogance. I met him in person once or twice and he’s always been kind. However he talks shit online and i don’t get it. People are entitled to their different approaches, but don’t sh*t on people who have proven themselves for decades.”
The debate between Greg Souders, Dan Manasoiu, and Tom DeBlass is more than just a clash of personalities; it represents a broader discussion about the evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Most coaches are divided on the efficacy of ecological training methods, with some arguing that they offer a more natural and adaptive approach to learning, while others, which remain the majority, maintain that traditional techniques are foundational to the art.
If Souders’ ecological approach gains traction, it could lead to a shift in how practitioners train and develop their skills. Conversely, if Manasoiu and DeBlass effectively counter Souders’ arguments, it could reinforce the importance of traditional training methods.
The real question is do we really need such a debate, or should we allow everyone to train the way they want to and let results speak for themselves? The debate live stream is scheduled for January 29, at 2 PM EST.
Final Thoughts
Nobody knows what’s the “correct” way to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu if there is one such way. There is a lot of merit to training the old-school way, the so-called “Eco” way, which is more precisely a subset of the Constraints Led Appraoch or using a hybrid of them all.
I’ve done all over the course of more than 30 years in martial arts, 15 of which in BJJ, and I prefer the CLA for the time being. While curious about the debate, I doubt it’ll change anything in anyone’s mind, to be honest.
Not another leg lock instructional! How is this one different from all the others? Well, honestly, it’s not. But that’s the point.
When you’re looking for a leg lock instructional, you’re likely trying to learn leg locks. To do that you’ll need a system. It is hard to make an existing system work, so you’ll likely need to pick things up from different ones and put them together.
This means you’ll need resources, and that’s exactly what the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD is – a key building block of your personalized leg lock system.
Navigating Leg Lock Systems
In early 2010 nobody had any idea what to do with the legs. Just 15 years later, there are all kinds of leg lock systems in BJJ, from Danahers, through the Sambo innovations of Riley Bodycomb, to the giant slaying system of Lachlan Giles, and ending with the old school approaches of Erik Paulson.
So which one should you pick? Well, there is really no one system that you can pick and be content with. Yea,h even Danaher’s. Here’s one huge reason (there are more) – it doesn’t contain the game over/Sambo knot position which is jsut as good, if not better than the Inside Senkaku promoted in it.
The bottom line is that if you want to figure out leg locks as a system, you’ll need to build your own. Yup, that man experimenting, asking, tapping a lot, getting frustrated, and watching tons of instructional. The good news is that all the resources you need already exist. Check out the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD to kick off your leg lock system-building experience. You won’t regret it.
The “Rubber Guard Assasin” Jeremiah Vance
If there is one gym in the world that has produced more ‘interesting’ characters than any other in the world, it is the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu conglomerate. Regardless of whether people train at 10P HQ or any of the moons, Eddie Bravo’s crating draws in all kinds of very quirky, in a cool way, people, who tend to introduce a lot of innovation to Jiu-Jitsu.
One of the standouts to watch at the moment, proudly waving the 10th Planet banner is Jeremiah Vance. A black belt under Eddie Bravo, Vance has already built a name for himself in grappling circles as the man with one of the nastiest rubber guards this side of 2010. Step aside Ben Eddie.
Vance, a.k.a. the Rubber Guard Assaisn has a much more versatile arsenal, though, than just getting people stuck in his guard. The 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD offers a very detailed and systematized peak into another area Vance excels at. You can guess what it’s all about from the title.
10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD Review
Vance provides the perfect insight into everything you need to know about the leg locks used by the best competitors from the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system. Over the course of four volumes and 2 hours, the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD teaches offense, defense, and all kinds of innovative positions and finishes:
Part 1 – Following With Leg Locks
As Jeremiah starts the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD, there is a sense of chaos, but that’s always present when 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is in focus. Things do come into focus as you watch on, though.
The first part of the DVD explores the best ways to finish an opponent who’s attempting to flee your Ashi Garami. Vance will teach you how to finish outside and inside heel hooks, ankle locks, and toe hold variations in transition, which, for a leg locker, is a crucial skill to have.
Part 2 – The X Break
Most of the moves presented in the opening part of the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD were nothing new, although Vance’s takes on finishing had some originality sprinkled through. The second part, however, is all about 10th Planet’s signature moves.
The X break is something I thought was very dumb the first time I saw it, as it seemed like you’re giving away a free Texas cloverleaf to opponents. It turns out, that there’s brilliance behind the move that is both a move that helps you defend leg locks, and that hinders your opponent’s arm useless in an Ashi, giving you the upper hand.
This volume offers several different finishes from this signature 10P position. The Jerry Montana finish is my personal pick from the bunch of heel hooks Vacne covers in this section of his instructional.
Part 3 – 50/50 Magic
Part three is all about flair and swagger as spinning leg lock entries take center stage. You’ve heard of the Imanari roll, but do you know what the Jackie Chen is? Well, the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD is here to clear up any confusion about this 10p spinning leg lock entry.
The end result of the entry is the 50/50, with Jeremiah offering top and bottom options, which, as expected results in an array of heel hooks. Everyone’s favorite leg locking position, the honey hole, also makes an expected appearance, seeing how closely related it is to the 50/50. Once again, entries outnumber finishes in this part of the DVD.
Part 4 – Defending Leg Locks
As we reach the final portion of the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD, the entire focus shifts to dealing with leg locks, 10th Planet style. Given how much they suffered at the hands of Eddie Cummings and Garry Tonon, trust me, 10th Planet grapplers know how to defend leg locks.
A few of the many moves in this volume that I can point out as particularly useful are the Single Leg X counter that lands you in a Spiderweb, the Honey hole counter that leads to the 50/50, and the Outside Ashi smash pass.
Thinking Outside the Box
Adopting anything from a source as varied and creative as the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system can only help your BJJ. However, you need to look through it with a filter, and if you are not able to, then ask someone with more experience to do it for you.
I spent a lot of time working on 10P concepts over the years, including their warm-up series. The stuff coming out of there is usually very good, often exceptional. One concern I usually have is that many things that come from the craziness that is 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu are not meant for everyone.
Simply put, with innovation highly encouraged in the gym, many people come up with very effective stuff that works perfectly for them but might not work for others. The rubber guard is one clear example.
That said, peeking into the open-ended box of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu did provide me with moves such as Twister side control, the Truck, the monkey mount, the Locoplata, etc, which I use a lot to this day. So, whoever you see something systemized emerge out of there, like the 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD, you’d most likely be better off picking it up than skipping over it.
What I particularly enjoyed about Eddie Bravo, ever since I learned about him, is that he doesn’t try to shove the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system down your throat. He’ll present awesome stuff and jsut say ‘look into it’. The 10th Planet Leg Locks Jeremiah Vance DVD does that for leg locks, allowing you to pick and choose from the varied buffet that 10th Planet has to offer.
if you’re after more submissions in BJJ, then you need to think more about baiting people in spots that allow you quick taps, rather than being obvious with your attacks. You can develop these skills the hard way, by figuring out traps by yourself or focus directly on proven, tried, and tested trap systems.
The Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD delivers one such system, which is better than most others simply because it centers around a submission many people dismiss – the calf slicer. There is a reason this position is called the Bear Trap, and you’ll find out exactly why in this DVD.
Figuring Out Compression Submissions
Compresison-based finishes are a rare sight in Jiu-Jitsu. That is pretty baffling, seeing how painful they are when applied properly. In all honesty, setting them up is not the easiest thing in the BJJ world, but, then again, that’s true for all submissions.
For the most part, people are familiar with calf slicers and biceps slicers as the main representatives of compression-based submissions. Both are legal, albeit past brown belt, which is probably another reason why people tend to shun them away, and never really explore them once they have the license to.
The story is a bit different for those open to learning everything since day one, as well as those who only compete under more liberal rules. It turns out that these submissions are the perfect opportunistic moves that can completely change the outcome of a roll or match in an instant.
That said, isn’t it better to be the one applying them, rather than on the receiving end of a super-tight biceps slicer or a nasty calf-slicer trap that’s impossible to get out of? The latter is exactly what you’ll be able to figure out using the material in the Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD.
European Luta Livre Pioneer Nicolas Renier
Renier has been involved in grappling more than most people who are reading this if not all. He is a black belt in BJJ and Luta Livre, having won a ton of different grappling championships throughout the years. His competitive efforts also include several impressive ADCC performances, which not many people can claim to have achieved.
Grappling since he was a kid, Nicolas Renier started training and competing in France which led to him quickly excelling through the ranks. In his 20s he opened the NRfight Club team in Paris and kept leading by example, competing more than any other European grappler at the time.
Presently only focused on teaching, the 37-year-old has a unique style that blends together Luta Liver and BJJ. Obviously, his forte is No-Gi, and for anyone who doesn’t have access to him, his instructions, which are quite a few, are the next best thing. The The Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD is probably one of his best.
The Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD Review
This highly informative Nicolas Renier calf slicer DVD only has two volumes, but in them, it contains literally everything you’ll need to figure out and start using the position. The total running time is just over an hour and a half.
Part 1 – What’s the Bear Trap?
Once you find out about the Bear Trap position in BJJ, it’s going to become one of your most trusted ‘ace in the sleeve’ options. The opening part of the Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD does an excellent job of explaining exactly what the position is, and how you can use it in BJJ.
While the positional introduction is short, Renier provides an incredible number of details once he shares his first setup. I appreciated this because he explained the position with context to grappling rather than in isolation – a mark of a great instructor.
The first application is the butterfly guard, which is often the main launching pad for intentional Bear Trap entries. Interesting butterfly half guard and closed half guard setups follow suit, also containing an exemplary level of detail.
Part 2 – Bear Trap-Based Attacks
The second portion of the instructional moves away from the essentials, as Renier offers plenty of attacking opportunities that you have at your disposal from the Bear Trap. interestingly enough he shares defensive advice first, which only helps reinforce the principles of proper finishing that follow it.
Providing much more than just calf slicers and toe holds, Renier shows how you can use the Bear Trap to reliably sweep and take the back, without any risk of the opponent slipping out, on account of the constant leg lock threat.
The Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD comes to a close with more application of the position in specific scenarios, such as using it to deal with a De la Riva rather than passing, and most importantly, using it during leg lock exchanges, when people counter and try to escape your initial Ashi Garami attacks.
Why Trappers Have it Easy in BJJ
If you like to focus on submissions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, then the best way to ensure you get them is to start looking at the setups for the submissions from the standpoint of a trapper. I know that many people use the term ‘submission hunter’, but as cool as that one sounds, being a ‘submission trapper’ is much more efficient.
The concept of traps is nothing new in grappling. In fact, most of the top-level grapplers operate based on this concept for every offensive move they make, from submissions to sweeps and passes. At the highest levels of grappling, though, the trappers usually need to herd their opponent into their trap, which makes it seem as if they’re attacking.
That is where the essence of the art of trapping in BJJ lies. As long as you can keep working, rather than just waiting, appearing as if you’re constantly trying to do something, only to end up trapping your opponent in another, is a foolproof way of not just succeeding in BJJ, but also being able to roll for a very long time.
One aspect of trapping that’s often overlooked is using the highly uncomfortable Bear Trap position. As you’ll see from the Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD, it offers a lot more than just calf slicers and back takes.
It won’t take long to go through the instructions laid out in the Bear Trap Nicolas Renier DVD. Once you do, you’ll be itching to try them out in your academy. However, if there is one piece of advice I can give you on applying what you learn from this DVD, it is to exercise patience and don’t overplay your hand. Wair for people to fall into your Bear Trap rather than trying to hit them on the head with it. After all, that’s how traps work, right?
Marcelo Garcia, often referred to as the “Michael Jordan of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu,” stunned the grappling world with his highly anticipated comeback on January 24, 2025, at ONE 170. This legendary figure returned to competition after more than a decade, facing none other than submission expert Masakazu Imanari. For fans and practitioners of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), this moment was nothing short of historic.
A Legend Returns to the Mats
Marcelo Garcia retired in 2011, leaving behind a legacy defined by his unparalleled achievements. A five-time ADCC champion and four-time IBJJF World Champion, Garcia’s innovative techniques and aggressive yet technical style revolutionized modern BJJ. Known for his mastery of the butterfly guard and the north-south choke, Garcia became a beacon of excellence in the grappling community.
After stepping away from competitive grappling, Marcelo dedicated his time to teaching, establishing the Marcelo Garcia Academy in New York City, and nurturing future champions. However, his battle with stomach cancer, diagnosed in early 2023, marked a turning point. After successfully undergoing treatment and making a full recovery, Garcia announced his return to the competitive stage in November 2024, signing an exclusive deal with ONE Championship.
The Comeback Match: Marcelo Garcia vs. Masakazu Imanari
Garcia’s opponent, Masakazu Imanari, is a legend in his own right. Renowned for his deadly leg lock game, Imanari posed a formidable challenge for the returning champion. Fans were eager to see how Marcelo’s skills would measure up after his long hiatus.
The match began with both athletes showcasing their signature styles. Garcia’s relentless pressure and precision were on full display as he neutralized Imanari’s leg lock attempts and maintained dominant positions. In the final minutes of the match, Marcelo secured his iconic north-south choke, forcing Imanari to tap out. This victory was a testament to Garcia’s enduring skill and determination.
An Inspirational Journey
Marcelo’s comeback is more than a sporting achievement; it’s a story of resilience, determination, and passion. Overcoming cancer and returning to peak performance in one of the most physically demanding sports is a testament to his character. His journey has inspired countless fans and practitioners worldwide, reminding everyone that challenges can be overcome with perseverance.
The Impact on the Grappling World
Garcia’s return has reignited interest in competitive grappling and brought attention to ONE Championship’s growing roster of elite submission grapplers. For younger generations, it’s an opportunity to witness a living legend in action and learn from his unmatched technical brilliance.
Watch the Full Fight
Don’t miss the chance to witness history. Watch Marcelo Garcia’s full comeback match against Masakazu Imanari and see the master at work:
Conclusion
Marcelo Garcia’s triumphant return to competitive grappling is a moment that will be remembered for years to come. His performance against Imanari not only solidified his legacy but also inspired the next generation of grapplers. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the world of BJJ, Marcelo’s comeback is a reminder of the transformative power of discipline, resilience, and an unyielding love for the sport.
In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where tradition and hierarchy are sacrosanct, a self-promotion to BJJ black belt is nothing short of a seismic event. The story of Roland Sarria, and his decision to self-promote to black belt, is as controversial as it is fascinating, covering his self-promotion, and the backlash that ensued.
From his tumultuous tenure at Rickson Gracie’s gym to his exploits as an MMA promoter with “Rage in the Cage,” Sarria’s journey is a compelling narrative of ambition and controversy. Here’s an in-depth look at the man who dared to break the mold.
Who is Roland Sarria?
Roland Sarria is a name that echoes through the corridors of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, though not always for the most conventional reasons. A practitioner who has dedicated decades to the art of BJJ, Sarria is also an MMA promoter known for his event “Rage in the Cage.”
In the hierarchical and tradition-bound world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, belt promotions are sacred milestones typically bestowed by higher-ranking practitioners. For Sarria, however, the conventional path didn’t align with his vision.
In an unprecedented move, he promoted himself to black belt—a decision that sent shockwaves through the BJJ community. This act of self-promotion was more than just a quest for recognition; it was a statement of independence and self-belief.
“God Promoted Me to Black Belt “
But what led to this controversial decision? Sarria’s motivations were rooted in his deep dissatisfaction with the existing structures and his desire to chart his own course in the martial arts landscape.
The decision to promote himself to black belt was not made lightly by Roland Sarria. Frustrated by what he perceived as the slow and politically driven promotion process within the BJJ community, Sarria took matters into his own hands.
“Instructors got black belts inside the academy, but they never competed in their lives—those cowards. Yet, they want to make fun of me when I competed against the best of the best, and they did not” announced Roland Sarria after he decided to self-promote to black belt.
Roland claims that it was Rigan Machado who helped him secure a super match with David Myers, suggesting that Roland was at a black belt level already. It was the post-match interaction that prompted Roland to self-promote to black belt:
Then some Brazilian came up to me and said, “Hey, who promoted you?” I looked at the monkey and said, “You saw the match, right?” He goes, “Yeah.” I said, “Do I look like a black belt?” He didn’t say anything. I said, “I’ll tell you who promoted me—God did.””
His announcement sent ripples through the BJJ world, triggering a wave of backlash, particularly from Brazilian practitioners who saw his actions as a blatant disregard for tradition and respect.
“I Wasn’t Born to be a Sheep; I Was Born to be a Lion.”
In numerous interviews afterward, Sarria defended his decision, stating that his years of dedication, skills, and contributions to the sport justified his promotion. He argued that the established system was flawed and that his actions were a form of protest against a rigid hierarchy that often overlooked merit.
“Let’s talk about kind of quantify this – how many guys you know that had the balls to do that back in those days?”
Despite his justifications, the criticism was relentless, with many in the community questioning his integrity and commitment to the art.
“There’s got to be a little bit of frustration, especially when you’re dedicating your entire life and time to something” said Sarria.
Training at Rickson Gracie’s Gym: “It was a Cult”
Roland Sarria’s journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu took a significant turn when he began training under the legendary Rickson Gracie. He was there in the early days, filled with old-school training and Gracie challenge matches. In fact, he was one of the witnesses to the Rickson vs Yoji Anjo fight.
“American guys followed the pack like, like little, like little, like little sheep. And yeah, they were like little sheep, and the shepherd was misleading them into the cave with the wolves.” said Sarria in an interview.
“The Rickson Gracie school was not structured; it was very primitive, somewhat disorganized. It was kind of like being in Brazil and just training. It was just too clicky, it was just too Brazilian for me that I wasn’t used to that and I didn’t like it.”
“After I left, I felt their wrath at every tournament,” he shared. “When I went to Ken Gabrielson, a white American black belt, I took so much sh*t from those guys. Conan Silveira was setting me up with all these Brazilian champions at every belt level.”
Beyond the BJJ mats, Roland Sarria ventured into the world of MMA, establishing himself as a prominent promoter with his event, “Rage in the Cage” based out of Arizona.
Is Roland Sarria a Fake Black Belt?
Roland Sarria’s decision to self-promote to black belt and his subsequent actions have sparked intense debate within the BJJ World community. Some argue that Sarria’s move undermines the traditional values and hierarchical respect ingrained in BJJ, while others view it as a bold statement against a sometimes rigid and slow-moving system.
At the end of the day, very few can deny that Roland had the background experience and knowledge to be a black belt by the standards back then. His issue was running into the Brazillian wall that decided, for some reason, he shouldn’t have his belt. Most likely for leaving Rickosn’s gym.
The backlash he faced, particularly from old-school Brazilian practitioners, underscores the cultural importance of these traditions and the resistance to change. In the realm of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, his actions challenge the established norms and prompt discussions about the balance between tradition and progress.
It is true that Roland set a dangerous precedent, but I’d rather we look at his case as an outlier, a blip in the system. There are more than a few blips of people not getting what they clearly deserve at the hands of malicious instructors. However, at the end of the day, people can’t just start to self-promote to a black belt, or any other belt – that’ll mean chaos.
Order Beats Chaos
On one hand, his decision to self-promote and his outspoken nature have made him a polarizing figure. Some argue that his actions undermine the integrity of BJJ’s deeply rooted traditions.
On the other hand, supporters see him as a maverick who challenges the status quo and advocates for a more meritocratic approach to BJJ belt promotions.
While I don’t hold the proponents of the old-school approach in high regard, I find the second stream, of those who support Roland, as more dangerous and as having the potential to fully disrupt the belt system, and with it, a big chunk of the credibility of BJJ.
We kind of need order at the end, even though belts really do matter less and less, and different aspects of training Jiu-Jitsu are now much more important than how much time you spent at blue belt or how old you were when you got your brown belt.
