A
relatively new martial art Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ) started off as a mixture of
Judo and Japanese Jiujitsu. BJJ has been rapidly evolving since its birth in Rio
de Janeiro during the 1920’s.
The Gracies
It was in 1914 that one of the world’s greatest Judo practitioners - Mitsuyo Maeda,
arrived in Brazil. Carlos Gracie decided to start training under Maeda. Carlos passed
Maeda’s teachings to his brothers.
The youngest of the brothers, Helio, started to develop what would become the modern
day BJJ techniques. Helio and Carlos Gracie are regarded as the founders of BJJ.
The Machados
The Machado brothers were among the first Brazilians to make the move to America
through the help of Chuck Norris (a Machado student himself). They left Rio de Janeiro
for the States in the late 80’s early 90’s.
Related to the Gracie family by marriage, the Machado brothers have always been
regarded as part of the inner-circle of what BJJ is today.
The Australian Scene - John Will
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu arrived on the Australian scene in 1989. It was introduced here
by John Will who spent time training under Rigan Machado in Brazil.
John became the Australian official Machado representative and immediately founded
BJJ Australia Federation.
We proudly represent the Will/Machado Organization at Newport.
Rigan Machado
Rigan Machado is a 8th degree black belt and is a living legend in the world
of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Rigan is considered by many to be the greatest grappler to ever walk the
face of the planet.
Rigan began training at the age of 5 with his cousins, The Gracie Family, but started
training & competing more seriously at the age of 14.
He achieved legendary stature at world championship level by amassing records the likes of which have never been seen again. From the age of 14 through
21, Rigan Machado won the World Championships every year and every belt division.
He created a record of 365 wins and no losses in BJJ competition. Rigan competed
in 19 matches in one day finishing all of them with the opponent submitting. He
has also competed and won in other styles of grappling such as Judo and Sambo taking
2nd place in World Championship.
Rigan is one of the most unique and interesting people in the world of Brazilian
Jiu-Jitsu and we’re truly proud to represent him at Newport – Australia.
Ortiz Academy