For Roger Gracie, fighting is part of a family tradition. The arts of Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have been passed down through many generations of the extended family. Over the years, the name has lost some of its magic within MMA, though the younger Gracie fighters, including Roger, are looking to change that. Being part of such a large history of the sport, Gracie works to keep the family name in the sport for as long as he can.
Gracie is heavily regarded as the greatest practitioner of Jiu-Jitsu today, as he has accomplished more in the sport than any other man. He holds the record for most wins at The World Jiu-Jitsu Championship with ten. In addition to his feats at The World Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Gracie competed in the Abu Dhabi Combat Club Submission Wrestling World Championship in 2005 and submitted all eight of his opponents. He has also not been submitted since he was a blue belt.
It’s been 86 years since Oswaldo, Gastao Jr., Jorge and Helio opened their first BJJ Academy after learning the art from their brother and founder, Carlos. Since then, the children and grandchildren have made the sport a part of their lives, just as their grandfathers did. Today, only the more notable Gracies names are familiar with fans. Royce is arguably the most recognized Gracie. In his days of fighting, the UFC Hall of Famer introduced the world to the unknown sport of jiu-jitsu and easily beat any man foolish enough to face him. Though after many years, his one-dimensional style got the best of him and he has since retired.
Roger Gracie may not have a legacy similar to Royce, but he looks to build one for himself over time. With every fight he has, he goes into the cage to prove to the world that the Gracies are far from being done. The same goes for his bout this Saturday at Strikeforce: Diaz vs. Cyborg when he faces Trevor Prangley. For Prangley, being cautious is necessary if he doesn’t want to fall victim to the submission skills of a Gracie.
