Many of you are undoubtedly already familiar with the Abu Dhabi Combat Club and its decade-long history as the world’s most prestigious Submission Grappling tournament. Just as undoubtedly, you already pre-ordered your copies of the ADCC 2009 World Championships DVD Set that we just unleashed upon the world.

This message is not for you.

This message is for all of you lily-licking pantywaists out there who haven’t heard of the Abu Dhabi Combat Club, and those who for some unfathomable reason, haven’t yet ordered the DVD set of their own.

ADCC is like Street Fighter, only with remarkably fewer fireballs.
Founded by an Arab Sheik who discovered MMA while attending college in the States, the Abu Dhabi Combat Club begain as an academy in the United Arab Emirates after his return, hiring world class instructors in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Wrestling, Russian Sambo, and Muay Thai.	Not pictured: lack of fireballs.
As the Sheik’s training expanded into multiple disciplines, he created a new competition and a set of rules that would allow fighters of any style to compete in a world-wide invitational tournament. This is basically the same idea every one of us had as a 12 year old kid after the first time we played Street Fighter II, only if we had nigh-unlimited financial backing and a host of international contacts. (Instead of merely 50 cents in milk-money to bribe Jimmy Jones and Todd McNerdy to wrestle behind the cafeteria during recess)
ADCC is basically every Jean-Claude Van Damme movie from the 80’s.
He can hear your heart beating from 3,000 miles away.	With the exception of spinal attacks, most submissions are permissible under ADCC rules, including knee and foot locks. Creating the ultimate playground for submission grappling, ADCC tournaments have featured a host of the world’s top competitors in MMA and BJJ (Matt Hughes, Royler Gracie, or Tito Ortiz ring a bell?) who are really pushed to the limits of their skill, as strikes are explicitly forbidden.
Don’t let this fool you, ADCC fights can be just as brutal. Why, in this very DVD set you can see the bone-crunching match between Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles and Rani Yahya that literally resulted in bones being crunched. Three bones, to be precise.
ADCC Championships only take place once every two years, so don’t wait!
The 2009 ADCC Championships took place from September 25-27 in Barcelona, Spain. The DVD set features an astounding 20 hours covering 117 fights, in addition to a special feature of instruction on the mats where BJJ Black Belt and ADCC commentator Shawn Williams will demonstrate for you some of the best moves exhibited in the tournament.	Jet-setting MMA badasses are also pro at splits.
This is better than Van Damme himself barging into your living room and punching your chest so hard that your heart will explode in three months long after you forgot about it!
So don’t waste any more time, Order Yours Today! (What, still need convincing? Then check out the trailer, pansy!)

Tags: BJJ Events, BV News, Documentary/Special Interests, Submission Grappling DVDs, Video

Interview by: Jake McKee    Photos by: Dave Contreras

One was the teacher, the other the student. One is a legend in BJJ, while the other is looking to forge his own path, and make a name for himself in MMA. Wherever their respective paths take them one thing will remain true for Gracie Barra black belts Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhaes and Romulo Barral. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is in their blood.

Interview with Draculino:

Can you talk about how you moved from Brazil to Texas?

I’m from Rio de Janeiro and lived there until I received my black belt. My thought was, “If I wanted to live doing BJJ I would have to move.” The sport is so segregated today, and that is not the type of competition I am looking to participate in. So I moved to Barro Zante, the 3rd biggest city in Southeast Brazil. I can easily say that move was the turning point in my career.  Working at a school with many types of students, all different levels of belts was a great learning experience.

Throughout that city I became known as both a good father and a good fighter, which provides me so with so much happiness. I love being able to teach students, and watch them grow and succeed. A previous student of mine (Tioshico) now owns his own gym in Manhattan.  Anyway, when he was younger he used to be goofy, fat, out of shape and couldn’t participate in any sport. Everyday I would help him train, and now he is a 3 time world champion. He is the only fighter to give Sergio Moraes a hard time during the championship match. Helping him become a world champion really makes me proud. It is something money can’t buy and cannot be taken away from either of us.

From there, because I came to the US for competitions, I was able to build up a good reputation throughout the US BJJ community. People encouraged me to move out to the States because it was the place to be. For 7 years I debated about moving and finally decided to pursue the American dream.

I moved to Houston, Texas because I have a lot of friends and affiliates already here. We opened a school less than 1 year ago, and we now have over 200 students. We received first place overall for a BJJ school at a competition in Texas.

What do you think it is about the BJJ curriculum that develops students so well?

I base my curriculum on the progressive system. I believe that if you learn something that is connected, then dissect each topic it has a good effect. What I see today, unfortunately, is people are forgetting the basics to most systems. Some people forget their guards and just do triangles.   They can’t escape from a headlock, they can’t defend a guard pass. So my students learn all of that; self defense, top positions, everything. We can sometimes spend a month on a simple guard pass because there are so many situations that can occur. We don’t just spend one day on one type of technique. For beginners, at my curriculum, it’s based towards the generality of self-defense or a real fight situation. Then they will get better at ground fighting and BJJ.

Can you tell us about the DVD which you just filmed?

It was a great experience. I made a DVD before in Japan, and I’ve always wanted to do something here in America. There is no one better to work with than Budovideos. I was lucky enough to have this invitation extended to me. I know the quality will be top notch, as well as the marketing. The techniques and concepts will be something no one has done before, following the progressive system of dissecting each move. I trust the crew completely in what they do and I just hope everyone likes it. If you are serious about BJJ, then you need to really pay attention to the small things, which is what the DVD captures.

What is the difference between this DVD and others that are out there?

This is the first DVD that covers the attack (or offense), the defense to the attack and how to counter that defense. These three aspects are there for each technique. If you master them all, then you really will be successful. Another thing is that this DVD really focuses on defense. BJJ is really a defense art, where you beat your opponent because you are a good defender. The way I was taught and how I learned was that you have to be really hard to tap, and really hard to defend. That way, no one can beat you and your opponents have to look at the bigger picture in order to compete with you.

What are your plans for the future?

It’s great to start again in a new country. I am so inspired to accomplish everything but don’t know where to start. I competed last year after an ACL replacement, so this year I will try to compete in the Mundials, PanAms, some NoGi tournaments, and some MMA fights. I think MMA fights are good for finding out who you really are. I don’t do this for the money because I’m older and can’t have a career in this field, but I want to still be one of the best coaches in the world for MMA. To be a good coach in MMA you have to experience more in the ring. I’ve submitted, won, lost, but I haven’t really learned all that I can. I want to go back in the ring, be put in more situations and learn how to get out of them in order to pass that along to students and really be the best coach for MMA.

What do you think about BJJ guys being in the MMA competition?

It’s style against style, but it won’t happen again. It wont be BJJ vs. boxing, but fighter against fighter. They train similarly everyday: grounds, takedowns, and strikes, no matter what country. Some people think BJJ has stopped, but they have learned it in the past in order to continue to another type of fighting. In all my years, I haven’t seen any fighter not incorporate BJJ during their fights. Sometimes it is through defense or countering, but in the end BJJ is the foundation to all the types.

What’s the best way for someone to continue training and having fun for as long as you have?

You can train until you die. You see grand master Hélio Gracie, 96, who still has mats in his house in Brazil. To this day he sometimes teaches private classes to students or trains with his son still at that age. BJJ is really a lifestyle. There is nothing that can stop you from doing BJJ. You can be hurt, but BJJ is a sport, which does not affect one’s health too much. You can do BJJ and work all parts of your body aerobically and anaerobic, which is a good work out for you mentally and physically. Training with a gi, when you are finished training you feel like you are on a level of Zen and your body and mind are in a blank spot of pleasure and joy.

Interview with Romulo Barral:

Who is Romulo Barral?

I was born on May 3rd, 1983 in Damantina, Brazil. I lived there for about 15 years until my family moved to Bella, Brazil where I remained up until about 4 months ago when I moved to the US. I’m a 5x World BJJ champion, and I even have a win over UFC veteran Demian Maia (Romulo was able to submit Maia in the 2006 World’s semi-finals). Really though, I’m just a regular guy. I love to compete, I train hard, and I always give my best.

How did you get into Jiu-Jitsu?

I trained in Tae Kwon Do as a kid, and one day my friend showed me fighters and MMA fights like Vitor Belfort and Rickson Gracie. Since that day I have grown to love it. My first teacher was Christiano “Titi”, a black belt under Draculino. After 6 months he introduced me to Drac and I told him I wanted to fight MMA but he told me BJJ was better for me to begin with. He told me to get started in the smaller shows, build up a better name, get more money and take it from there - Since then I’ve continued to progress, and I’ve even won some tournaments!

How did you get to be so good?

The school I trained at was one of the best BJJ academies in Brazil and had the best people around. If I had to give you a simple answer I would just say because I train hard. I have the best teachers and best training partners. I’ve trained before my tournaments with Drac and have competed with some of the best guys like Eric Vandalay, Christiano “Titi”, and Philipe Carnegata, and I’ve continued to get better each time.

How often do you train?

I usually train 3-4 times daily with physical conditioning, 6 hours a day. Drac would always tell me to go home, but I would always want to stay a few more minutes in order to get the good results. I keep taking classes like sparring classes, positioning, all of those.  Like I said earlier, I train hard.

You just opened a new school. Can you tell us a bit about it?

I just opened one with (former UFC Lightweight competitor) Alberto Crane, another Black belt under Drac out in Encino. We recently had our grand opening, and already we’ve got about 35 students currently enrolled. The school offers both BJJ, and Muay Thai. We have some really good instructors for our students to learn from. It’s a great place to go if you’re serious about learning either, or both these arts.

What do you see in your future as far as competitions go?

I will continue to compete at as many competitions as I can. My goal right now is to restart my career in MMA and become a future champion. I had one fight in 2004, but now I am more serious about it. I have a fight coming up (February 28th at Rage in the Cage) and I’m facing a tough opponent named Adrian Valdez. I’m really looking to just build a name for myself in MMA and continue to fight the best guys. I just want to test myself as much as I can especially since I have been out of competition for over a year-and-a-half due to an injury.

Is there anyone in particular you are looking to fight?

No, just anyone. They’re all tough so it will be a difficult journey.

Tips for the readers?

To be a champion in a black belt is not easy. You can’t just train hard and keep fighting. For me, I changed my diet, rested, and chose my training partners and coaches carefully. You really have to change your lifestyle. If you do that and really put your heart into it, you can become a world champion.

Tags: Interviews

Article by: Marcelo Alonso (in collaboration with Guilherme Cruz, Eduardo Ferreira, and Erik Englehart)    Photos by: Marcelo Alonso & The Gracie Family

After over 80 years devoted to Jiu-Jitsu, the man who revolutionized the Martial Arts concept around the world has passed away.

On October 1st, 2008, family and friends gathered to celebrate the birthday of Hélio Gracie. Though he was turning 95 years old, Hélio took center stage and delivered a heartfelt speech to those in attendance detailing his storied life, and thanking them for taking the time to celebrate with him. Following the party the general consensus among guests was that Hélio had never looked better, and not only would they be returning the following year to help celebrate his 96th birthday, they would also return years from now to mark his 100th birthday.

Sadly, this was not to be as the legendary Gracie succumbed to pneumonia and passed away on January 29th, 2009.

Of Hélio’s nine children, only Royce and Rolker were able to make the trip in time to attend their father’s funeral (which took place only 8 hours after his passing). Rorion and Royler were in the US, while Robin and Rickson were in Europe at the time. None of them could find a flight that would get them back to Brazil in time. Following Hélio’s funeral, a saddened Royce Gracie recounted the phone call that brought him back to his native Brazil just in time to say goodbye to his father. “My mother called me and told me that he (Hélio) wouldn’t last long, so I took an immediate flight from Los Angeles to Brazil. When I arrived, it seemed as if he had been waiting for me to get there and soon after that he passed.”

True to her word Hélio’s wife Vera followed her late husband’s final wishes and arranged a simple and quick ceremony at Petropolis Cemetary located 90 min away from Hélio’s native Rio de Janeiro, and just 20 min away from Itaipava, where Hélio had spent his remaining years.

As he watched the coffin lower into the ground, Royce Gracie, the man who had introduced Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to the world, and had fought for hours against opponents twice his size, began to break down. As a final gesture of love and respect for his father, Royce placed a single black belt on top of the coffin and led a round of applause that echoed around the world.

Within hours of his passing, various international media outlets began reporting the news. Almost immediately martial artists from around the world would begin to pay their respects in various ways. Some elected to hold a moment of silence, while others elected to share stories of the fallen patriarch.

SAVED BY JIU-JITSU

Born in Belém, Brazil on October 1st, 1913, to parents Gastão and Cesalina, Hélio was the youngest of five children. It was in the same city of Belém that Hélio’s father had met and befriended Mitsuyo Maeda (also known as Count Koma) some years prior. At the time, Gastão Gracie was an important political figure and had used his influence to help Maeda establish a Japanese colony. In return for his help, Maeda offered to teach Gracie’s eldest son Carlos the ways of jiu-jitsu.

During the early 1900’s, it was considered a crime against the nation for a Japanese national to teach jiu-jitsu to a non-Japanese, however Maeda disregarded this fact as he felt that in Brazil he had found the fertile soil he had been searching for in order to perpetuate the art of jiu-jitsu, which he felt was losing students to Judo in Japan.

During his childhood and early adolescence, Hélio suffered from numerous health problems, and had unexpected dizziness spells. His conditioned worsened to the point that he couldn’t even attend school and instead opted to spend his time at his brother’s jiu-jitsu academy where his older brothers taught classes. Although forbidden by his brothers from participating in the classes, Hélio continued to watch with a perceptiveness that no one realized. He studied and memorized each move until he knew the art of jiu-jitsu inside and out.

Then came the fateful day that would forever change the course of jiu-jitsu. Carlos was running late for a private lesson, and the student asked Hélio if he wanted to “play” until Carlos arrived to begin the class. Hélio ended up teaching the student until Carlos arrived. Excusing himself for being late, Carlos told the student to prepare for the class when the student immediately dismissed him and informed Carlos that he wanted Hélio to teach him from that point on. Master Hélio was born.

AGGRESSIVE MARKETING

To demonstrate their style during the 1920’s the Gracie family used an aggressive marking strategy called “The Gracie Challenge” which utilized the newspaper in order to captivate people’s attention and encourage them to learn the art. Some of the ads they put in newspapers would read “If you want a broken arm call Carlos Gracie” and practitioners from a variety of disciplines including Karate, Boxing, Capoeira, and Luta Livre would flock from all over hoping to be the one to disprove the Gracie’s belief in jiu-jitsu. It was through these challenges that the Gracie brothers began the Vale-Tudo (anything goes) fights in Brazil, and grew the Gracie name into one that was both feared and respected throughout the country. It was this exact same strategy that Hélio’s eldest son Rorion implemented in order to showcase Gracie jiu-jitsu to the United States. Along with his brothers and cousins, Rorion won dozens of unsanctioned “challenges” in garages, universities, and various seminars around the US until he met advertising executive Art Davie, and the two of them were able to talk to Hollywood director John Milius (Red Dawn, Conan the Barbarian) into coming aboard as an investor. Thus the UFC was born, however for Rorion and his family this was nothing new as the Gracie’s had been holding these types of challenges for well over 60 years.

DEBUT IN THE RING

George, Carlos, and Oswaldo’s stunning victories in the very first Vale-Tudo fights immediately put the Gracie name on the map. Hélio longed to follow in his brothers footsteps, and on January 16th, 1932 at the age of 17, Hélio’s first fight under Vale-Tudo rules came against the Brazilian Lightweight Boxing Champion Antonio Portugal. The unknown jiu-jitsu master, and his larger opponent served as the night’s opening bout which took place at the Frontao, a popular Rio arena. Going into the fight Hélio was so nervous he was unable to speak. When the opening bell rang Hélio dodged a punch from Portugal, took him to the mat, and immediately applied an armlock for the win. The fight lasted just 30 seconds. Following the fight, the crowd was left in awe having just witnessed a smaller man not only defeat a boxing world champion, but doing it in under a minute. Many thought the fight was fixed.

Following the fight with Portugal, Hélio faced his first Japanese opponent, Takashi Namiki. The fight was scheduled to take place at the Teatro Sao Caetano, and with time running out Gracie broke Namiki’s arm. To his dismay, the tough Japanese fighter refused to give up and Hélio was forced to accept a draw. Immediately following the fight, Hélio issued a new challenge to Namiki - which he refused.

HÉLIO VS. FRED EBERT

On November 6th, 1932, Hélio accepted the challenge from another international champion named Fred Ebert. Ebert had finished second in the World Freestyle Wrestling Championship in the 95-kilo class in 1932. Weighing 77lbs (35kg) less than his opponent, Hélio was treated as the underdog by the press and many of the spectators in attendance. The fight would go on for more than 2 hours, and was broken up by the police because state law declared that no public sporting event could be held past 2 a.m. During the fight, Hélio had managed to throw the much larger man out of the ring twice, and by the time police arrived Ebert was unable to stand on his own. Although Ebert was taken to the hospital, the match was declared a draw due to the rules stating that a winner could only be declared via submission or KO.

In 1934, Hélio fought Japanese fighter Miaki who had gained notoriety by having a rope tied around his neck with two men pulling either side and not submitting. The match was scheduled for one, thirty minute round. Hélio was able to submit Miaki via choke in 27 minutes.

In his fifth fight, Hélio once again faced an opponent with a significant size advantage in Wladek Zbyszko. Zbyszko weighed in at 265lbs (120kg) and at the time was widely considered to be the greatest fighter in the world. The contest was called a sports match so there were no punches or kicks involved. The fight was scheduled for three, ten-minute rounds and ended in a draw. “I offered him overtime, but he refused” the proud BJJ master would often tell people.

THE BLOODIEST FIGHT

In February 1935 Hélio once again fought under Vale-Tudo rules, this time against Orlando “Dudu” da Silva who at the time was a Brazilian luta-livre (wrestling) champion. During the fight, one of Hélio’s kicks knocked out two of Dudu’s teeth. Despite fighting nearly the entire duration from his back (guard position), Hélio was able to inflict an incredible amount of damage on Dudu, and at 19 minutes the fight was stopped and Hélio was declared the winner by KO. Following the fight, Dudu had to be taken to the emergency room and was treated  for a fractured rib, two broken teeth, and a broken jaw. “It was the most violent fight of my life. It was 19 straight minutes of blood” Hélio told the newspapers following the fight.

“I CAN BEAT FIVE GRACIES IN ONE NIGHT”

Late in 1935, Japanese fighter Yasuichi Ono made his way to Brazil and made the claim that he could beat five Gracies in a single night. Hélio accepted the challenge. Near the end of the first round Hélio was exhausted and was having trouble seeing, yet he somehow managed to continue. At the end of the final round, Hélio was able to apply a choke until the bell rang, signifying the end of the fight. As Hélio let go of the choke, Ono fell unconscious to the ground, however the fight was ruled as a draw.

In 1936, Hélio fought two Japanese fighters named Masagoishi. By that time Hélio’s choke had become so feared by his opponents that many of his opponents forgot to defend against his other attacks. As the fight with Masagoishi started, Hélio placed his feet on his opponent’s hips, threw him over, and landed in the mount position. Masagoishi raised his arms in an attempt to defend the choke, and was caught in an armlock.

GRACIE ACADEMY

In the 1950’s, the Gracie’s moved their school from the small Rio borough of Flamengo to a much larger location in Rio de Janeiro off of Rio Branco Ave. “It was undoubtedly the biggest gym ever” a proud Hélio would boast, and thanks to the Gracie’s fame dozens of top celebrities and politicians such as Carlos Lacerda (a famous journalist who later became Governor of Rio de Janeiro) began to train there, as did the son of Brazilian President Getulio Vargas.

The Gracie’s were not only jiu-jitsu masters, but also highly organized businessmen that kept their school running like a well- oiled machine. Every student at the academy was given two cards with pictures and important information. One was kept at the school, and one was given to the student to keep with them and present upon entering. Once the card was presented, the school secretary would match it to the card held at the school. The school card was then stamped with the date and name of the instructor who taught the class and given in addition to a towel and a gi back to the student in exchange for their personal card. At the end of each class, the instructors would sign next to the stamp to confirm that the student had taken the class. The student would then exchange his school card, along with the gi and the towel, for his own card.

At the time of his passing Hélio still had the cards of every student who attended the Gracie Academy. “We had hundreds of students” remembered Hélio. “When each student came to the school, he would get a basket with a clean gi, a hanger, and a clean towel. Every student had his own gi, and that was his for as long as he continued to train at the academy. At one time we had 600 students, and taught 600 classes a week. They would only wear the gi once – no one every wore a dirty gi in my school!”

The Gracie’s method of keeping track of their students proved to be so effective that to this day it is still used by many jiu-jitsu academies around the world.

HÉLIO FACES KIMURA

In 1951, Hélio Gracie had conquered all challengers in Brazil and sought new opponents in the homeland of jiu-jitsu: Japan. At the time, Hélio was very confident in his skills to the point that some viewed him as cocky, or abrasive. He made several comments about how he had beaten several Japanese opponents, and that the Japanese had no one that could beat his jiu-jitsu.

In response, the Japanese sent two fighters, Kato and Kimura. Upon their initial meeting, Kimura refused to fight Hélio stating that the weight and age difference (Kimura weighed 220lbs compared to Gracie’s 154, and was 10 years his junior) was too great, so instead proposed a fight between Hélio and his (Kimura) understudy, Kato. “When I beat Hélio people will say it’s because of the weight and age difference so instead I offer Kato.” Kimura later went on to publicly state that if Hélio were to beat Kato, he would offer an immediate challenge to Gracie.

In September 1951, Hélio fought Kato in the Maracana Stadium (the largest soccer stadium in the world with a maxium occupancy of 100,000). Despite suffering two broken ribs the week before the fight, Hélio fought bravely until the end of the three ten-minute rounds. The match was declared a draw. During the fight Hélio had been taken down twenty times, while Kato was forced to escape through the ropes on several occasions.

Later that same month, the two fought again, this time in São Paulo. With a great show of heart and determination, Gracie was able to choke Kato unconscious in front of the roaring crowd. Following the fight, and true to his word, Kimura stepped into the ring to issue a challenge to Hélio.

Despite the fact that he was in his 40’s, and he was facing a much bigger man, Hélio trained the same way as he did for every opponent. “I would teach my lessons all day so at the end of the day I would only have to train for ten minutes” Hélio recalled. “Everyone tried to stop me from fighting Kimura. They said why risk losing? Why not go out on top?” I told them “I know I am going to lose, but I want to fight him and find out how he is going to beat me! When you fight, you find out more about yourself. If you win, you know you are on the right track; if you lose then you learn why you lost and try to improve your technique.”

The fight took place on October 13th, 1951 in Rio de Janeiro in front of 60,000 fans and the entire Brazilian and Japanese press corps. Prior to the fight, Kimura had stated that if Gracie was able to last more than three minutes with him, he (Kimura) would surrender his title to the Brazilian. Few people in the audience expected the fight to go past the first round. Kimura began the fight using his devastating onslaught, however the crafty Hélio utilized his defensive skills to nullify his opponents attacks and confuse the Japanese fighter. At the end of the first round Hélio was exhausted, but proud that he had been able to last longer than anyone expected. “Where did Kimura’s three minutes go?” asked an overly excited Joao Café Filho, Brazil’s President.

The fight continued, and at one point Kimura was able to pass Hélio’s guard and apply a side headlock. The pressure was so great that it caused blood to ooze from Hélio’s ear. Kimura asked him if he wanted to continue, and Hélio replied with a defiant “yes!”

Following the 13 minute mark, Kimura finally caught Hélio in an ude-garami (now widely known as the “Kimura” in BJJ) and applied pressure hoping to get Gracie to submit. “I had promised Carlos that if Kimura caught me in a submission hold I would tap, but I was very stubborn and wouldn’t do it. When Kimura applied the armlock, Carlos threw in the towel” Hélio later told a reporter. Following his loss to Kimura, Hélio’s historic 13 year undefeated streak came to an end. Kimura was so impressed with Gracie’s performance that he later visited Hélio’s house and invited him to visit Japan. Hélio graciously declined because he believed that during their fight he had learned everything he could from the Japanese legend.

HÉLIO GRACIE VS. WALDEMAR SANTANA

Hélio eventually retired from the professional fight circuit and instead dedicated his time to making the Gracie Academy the preeminent martial arts school in the world. On May 24th, 1955, Hélio came out of retirement to face one of his own instructors in what is still widely regarded as the most mythic fights of all time.

The fight originated with a disagreement between Hélio and his best student and top instructor Waldemar Santana. Waldemar was a former dockworker, and had been with the Gracies for nearly five years, and had developed a close relationship with the family. At the time, Santana was in desperate need of money and agreed to take part in a “professional wrestling” event at the Palacio de Aluminio (a show house for fixed fights). Hélio warned Santana that he didn’t want him participating in the event because it could cloud the academy’s reputation. Santana tried reasoning with Hélio, insisting that the fight would be held under Vale-Tudo rules, but Hélio refused, further stating that as long as Santana worked for him he would not be allowed to take part in such events.

Fueled by money, Santana disobeyed Hélio and took the fight anyways. He was able to defeat his opponent with ease, but was immediately expelled from the Gracie Academy upon Hélio’s discovery.

In an interview following his fight, Santana was instigated by journalist Carlos Renato from the newspaper Ultima Hora (who had a longstanding grude against the Gracies) into making disparaging remarks about the family.

Upon learning about the remarks, Hélio contronted Santana and offered him a chance to retract what he had said. Santana refused, and Hélio was forced to issue a challenge for a fight.

The fight was held at the YMCA in the borough of Lapa in Rio de Janeiro, and was considered a “private affair” so no press was admitted entrance. The fight began promptly at 4 p.m. and went on for an unprecedented 3 hours and 45 minutes WITHOUT INTERRUPTION. Hélio fought valiantly against a man 23 years his junior and 66lbs heavier, however shortly before 8 p.m. Hélio, now exhausted, was caught with a vicious soccer kick to the head and immediately knocked unconscious.

To this day the Gracie vs. Santana fight is considered to be the longest Vale-Tudo match in history.

HÉLIO GRACIE’S LEGACY

It’s almost impossible to measure the impact that Hélio Gracie has had on jiu-jitsu and modern MMA. After dedicating more than 70 years of his life to the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Hélio’s lifetime goal of sharing the art of jiu-jitsu with the world was finally realized in the early 90’s when his son Royce went on to record 12 straight victories and become the first UFC champion by defeating opponents much larger than him with his father’s teachings.

While Royce dominated his opponents in the US, Hélio’s other son Rickson did the same in Japan by defeating six opponents in two Japan open tournaments. At the time the Gracie’s victories sent shockwaves through the martial arts world, and opened the doors for modern MMA; the fastest growing sport in the world today.

Had it not been for the determination of a frail boy who spent hours memorizing the movements of his older brother, none of this would have been possible.

And for that, martial arts fans around the world will forever be grateful.

“I created a flag from the art’s dignity. I oversee the name of my family with affection and nerves of blood.”
-Hélio Gracie

“Today my father, Helio, at the age of 95 passed on. I am honored to be the son of such a great man. He was an inspiration to me throughout my life. As a Grandmaster of jiu-jitsu and the father of “Vale Tudo,” he brought Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to the forefront of martial arts. He was a man of small stature but his heart was that of a giant. He proved with Gracie Jiu-Jitsu that even a small man could overcome a bigger stronger opponent by using leverage and technique. He was truly an innovator. Just look around and you can see how his success gave birth to the sport of mixed martial arts that we all enjoy today. Many of you may think that the greatest thing my father ever gave me was Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. But I want all of you to know that I will remember him most for what he taught me off the mat. He taught me how to be a man, a husband and a father. He showed me how to be honorable, respectful and diligent. He taught me how to be a whole person. I ask that together we celebrate the remarkable life of my father, Helio Gracie. The greatest tribute you can to pay to my father is to continue to train and share Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, remembering to never lose sight of the fact that what you do off the mat counts more than what you do on the mat. Face life’s challenges with confidence, dare to pursue your dreams and live to the fullest just as my father did.”
-Royce Gracie
UFC Hall of Famer

“His legacy will survive forever in all members of the Gracie Family, jiu-jitsu practitioners around the world, and all those who have benefited from the revolution he began. In his final years, the creator of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu often spoke of his satisfaction with his life’s work. He openly stated that he had accomplished everything he had set out to do, displaying his preparedness for the transition into the afterlife. The Grand Master believed that such a transition should be seen as a positive step in one’s spiritual evolution. In a recent interview he declared: “I’ve already told my sons that when I die I want there to be a party. No drinking, no debauchery.”
-Rorion Gracie
Co-creator of the UFC

“This was really such a great loss. Not only for jiu-jitsu, but also to the MMA world, after all it was thanks to Hélio and his sons that Vale-Tudo was brought to USA, and the world, through the UFC. It´s a blessing that one person can reach his age doing seminars and put the gi on to teach. That´s Hélio Gracie´s image I take with me.”
-Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Former PRIDE/UFC Heavyweight Champion

“Hélio was one of the bravest men I´ve ever seen. The day I led the invasion of the Gracie Academy with 60 psychopaths to avenge what Rickson did to me on the beach, Hélio Gracie was almost 80 years old and besides convincing Rickson to fight me, he also organized a big circle with all the people so we could fight inside. This was one of the biggest demonstrations of leadership and bravery I´ve ever seen in my life.”
-Hugo Duarte
Former Gracie Rival

“The legendary patriarch of jiu-jitsu’s first family, Helio Gracie, has passed away at the age of 95. The father of nine children, including UFC Hall of Famer Royce, the master of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu was revered throughout the world for his gentle manner off the mat and his amazing skill and technique on it. He will be sorely missed. The UFC sends its
sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Helio Gracie.”
-Official UFC Statement

“He always said: ‘When I die I want a party’. I started my sportive life with him, developed all my career by his side. Learned absolutely everything from him. After my dad, Helio was my biggest model. I´m very proud to have lived for 15 years with Helio and other Gracie members. He was my second father. He taught me all my moral and ethic principles. His teaching was very important for me. He was a great person and a great friend. I´m what I am because of him. I´ll miss him a lot.”
–João Alberto Barreto
Former Gracie Student and Instructor at Gracie Academy

“All Jiu-jitsu and MMA fighters in the world owe a lot to Hélio and his brother, Carlos Gracie. They were the ones who developed a style that represents Brazil all over the world. Everybody comes here to train Jiu-Jitsu because of them. I believe Hélio and Carlos are very important for Brazil not only in the sportive field but also in culture.”
-Demian Maia
UFC Middleweight Competitor

“I´ve always had a great respect and affection for master Hélio Gracie. I had the pleasure to be by his side in one of Meca editions in Teresópolis and I paid a lot of attention to his comments concerning the fights. Even being more than 90 years old, he was very clear and intelligent. The martial arts have lost a legend but his example will always remain for all generations of fighters around the world. I hope god blesses him and all the Gracie family.”
-Rudimar Fedrigo
Head Trainer of Chute Boxe Academy

“Jiu-jitsu was the only martial art in the world where the creator was alive. Our creator has gone. Now we have to keep fighting to keep his legacy, honor and respect in the name of his jiu-jitsu.”
-Xande Ribeiro
Jiu-Jitsu World Champion

“I’ve been in the game a while and have met and/or worked with the greatest champions in modern day martial arts. But when I interviewed Helio Gracie for a pay-per-view television broadcast, for me as a mixed martial arts aficionado, it was kind of like meeting the forefather, the creator, the man who invented what we now view as the ultimate sport. Speaking with this legendary man, whose life’s work was the pursuit of truth within the martial arts, was a revelation that I will never forget. But the things that really stood out to me were Helio’s human qualities; his sense of attentiveness, his sense of respect and above all his sense of humor. I was one of the lucky ones…who met the great Helio Gracie…and made him laugh. For that moment in time, I am forever thankful.”
-Stephen Quadros
Former broadcaster for PRIDE, IFL, WEC, EliteXC

Tags: Articles

Technique by: Marcio Feitosa    Photos by: Dave Contreras

The single leg takedown is a common way to get taken down, particularly when training without the gi. While there are numerous ways to escape when your opponent has one of your legs in the air, this particular counter becomes even more effective the tighter your opponent holds on. This sacrifice throw relies on you being able to keep your opponent’s grip locked on tight to your leg. His committed attack is what ends up sending him flat on his back on the mat enabling you to get on top and apply a submission of your own - in this case an armbar or an americana.

3-1. Marcelo has a deep single on Marcio.

3-2. Marcio grabs Marcelo’s grip with his right and reaches over and grabs Mareclo’s back just below his armpit.

3-3. Marcio steps his right leg in between Marcelo’s legs and lowers his hips. He uses his left leg now as a hook.

3-4. Marcio sits back and pulls Marcelo over him. He maintains his grips and uses his left leg to bring Marcelo forward.

3-5. Marcelo puts Marcio in headlock.

3-6. Marcio maintains his grip and rolls Marcelo on to his back.

3-7. From here he turns toward Marcelo…

3-8. … and quickly hops to the opposite side.

3-9. To control Marcelo, Marcio pulls upward on Mareclo’s wrist and places his left hand on his neck

3-10. He then lowers himself and begns to pass to side control.

3-11. He then lowers himself and begns to pass to side control.

3-12. Marcio steps his right leg over Marcelo’s head.

3-13. …and grabs his right ankle with the left arm that is under Marcelo’s shoulder.

3-14. Marcio then arches his back to submit Marcelo with an armlock.

3-15. If Marcelo defends by pushing Marcio’s leg away with his right hand…

3-16. Marcio can counter his defense by reaching over to secure an Americana.

Tags: Techniques

Technique/Article by: Rik Brown    Photos by: Dave Contreras

Martial Artists, MMA Fighters, BJJ, and Wrestlers, when your grip is gone so is your chance for victory.  Without a strong, powerful grip, you can’t control or hold your opponent.  You can’t “Lock Him Up!” in your submission attempts.  And without grip endurance, you can’t fight him off as the match wears on.

But don’t worry, if you have a kettlebell, you have the best tool on earth for building the kind of powerful, dynamic, functional hand strength that your friends will respect and the opposition will fear.  Did you know that with a Kettlebell, you can increase your crushing grip strength and strength-endurance 100% without gaining any weight at all?  Imagine, having the grip of a super-heavyweight in a lighter weight class!  Imagine, shaking hands with a competitor and suddenly he knows…you are in charge!  Imagine the panic he will feel when you grab hold of his wrist or his sleeve and he can’t get away!

The Kettlebell, that ball of iron with a handle, is tailor made to develop the muscles and the tendons of your hand and your forearm so that you will truly be “armed and dangerous.”

The Advantage Of Kaizen Kettlebells:

The extra thick handle presents quite a challenge every time you pick it up.  It is much thicker than a dumbell or a barbell, and this forces you to grip tighter with every repetition.  There is no “casual lifting” of a kettlebell.  It’s offset center of balance means that it feels much heavier than it is.  And this develops extreme control and hard-core strength.

Also, Kaizen Kettlebells have a glassy-smooth finish, which will save the skin on your hands when you are doing high repetitions to build unreal endurance.  With Kettlebells, you can combine strength, cardio, and conditioning training into a brief but brutal session, leaving you more time to work on skills, sparring, and technique.

Kaizen Kettlebells, are the bad boys of the strength-training world.  This is a serious tool that will take you to a new level of rugged power.  Get them before your competition does!

1) Upside Down Press: Pick up your Kettlebell with two hands, steady it at your shoulder, holding the handle with the bell on top.  Squeeze the handle as hard as you can, and slowly press over head.

2) Flip Swing: Swing the Kettlebell with two hands and at the top of the swing, push the handle down and around as you reach up and over and grab it as it comes around.  Do this quickly, and do this outdoors to save the floor.

3) 360 degrees: Slide a thick towel through the handle and tie a knot.  Grab each end of the towel and swing in a circle using your whole body to build momentum.

4) Claw Grip Curl: Slide your fingers and thumb through the handle and grip the ball with your palm and fingertips, curl and control.

Rik Brown is a certified personal trainer specializing in kettlebell training. He conducts personal, and group sessions all throughout south Orange County.

Contact Rik Brown:

rikfit2003@yahoo.com
949.443.1540

Tags: Techniques

Interview & Photos by: Manabu Takashima

The following interview was previously featured in Vol. 6 of the Budovideos magazine (now called Martial Generation Magazine). Current UFC Middleweight contender, Yushin “Thunder” Okami sat down with us prior to his fight with Dean “The Boogeyman” Lister at UFC 92, to discuss a number of topics. Among them were, how Yushin got his start in MMA, what he feels his status is within the UFC, and what he’s got in store for the future.

UFC Middleweight fighter Yushin “Thunder” Okami has been with the organization since 2006 when he scored a unanimous decision victory over Alan Belcher, yet he still remains a relative unknown among many American fans. One look at Okami’s resume (including a victory over current UFC Middleweight champion Anderson Silva) , however would make any MMA fan realize that Okami is one of the best in the world at 185lbs. He’s 6-1 within the UFC (22-4 overall) and has fought against some of the biggest names in MMA but does the former Judo tournament champion truly have what it takes to make a name for himself with US fans and even win UFC gold?

You’re fighting Dean Lister at UFC 92 on December 27th at the MGM in Las Vegas. How do you feel heading into this fight?

I feel good, and I am looking forward to fighting at the MGM in Vegas again. This is a very important fight for me because if I win I am back in contention for the title. I am looking to KO Lister because I want the US fans and Zuffa (owners of the UFC) who I am.

You’re 6-1 in the UFC, but many US fans don’t really know who you are. Can you give us some insight into how you got started in MMA, and who Yushin Okami is in and out of the cage?

Sure. There are a few reasons I got into MMA. I finished my Judo career when I graduated high school and I was looking for something else to do. My Judo career only lasted three years, and I think part of that has to do with the fact that I am not the kind of guy who can compete in an individual sport. I wasn’t feeling challenged enough in Judo, even when I was winning tournaments. At the same time I was doing Judo I was running track and field. After I quit Judo I really missed the training aspect. Someone who knew Keishukai (network of MMA gyms in Japan) took me to one of the schools and got me started. I was introduced to a lot of the famous fighters such as Uno-san (Caol Uno), Mitsuoka-san (Eiji Mitsuoka), and Takase-san (Daiju Takase) and they helped me make the transition into MMA.

Out of the three names you mentioned, was there anyone who you were intimidated by?

Absolutely.  It was Uno-san. I was scared of him.

Really? He seems like a very nice guy. He always seems calm, and he’s always got a smile on his face.

It’s true, he’s a very nice person and he’s always calm. He’s the guy at my gym that is always training the hardest. He refers to me and some of the other guys as the “Young Guns” at Keishukai. Uno-san is always very calm, but when he trains us it scares not only me, but other people in the gym. Outside of the gym he is always cool, which is why I am intimidated by him – inside of the gym he’s another person.

Keishukai is one of the top teams in Japan, and has produced some world level talent. What was it like in the beginning for you?

When I came to Keishukai I was lucky enough to meet Isono-san (Gen Isono, former MMA fighter and Okami’s trainer). When I fought in the pre-PRIDE tournaments he was always in my corner. Once instance he was scheduled to have a very serious operation the same day as one of my fights, but he re-scheduled it just so he could be in my corner. I remember him saying “being in your corner is more important to me than this operation.” After that he has been my cornerman for all of my fights except for one. His tutelage and guidance is the reason I am where I am today.

Early in your career you fought at PRIDE: THE BEST, Demolition, and Pancrase without losing once. What do you feel was your most important fight during those days?

I would say my fight with Hidehiko Hasegawa (who would later become the DEEP champion). It was my first main event fight, and I was very nervous but I scored a unanimous decision.

Currently your record is 22-4. Can you talk about what you feel the turning point of your career was?

I don’t think I have one particular turning point, actually I think I have quite a few. When I fought Amar Suloev I thought I knew everything, and I ended up losing by TKO. I got a little full of myself going into that fight because I was on a seven fight win streak. The loss to Suloev broke my heart, but it made me work harder than I ever had before.

The second turning point was my fight against Anderson Silva at Rumble on the Rock. That fight also broke my heart because after the fight with Suloev I had 8 fights (lost once via split decision), and heading into my fight with Silva I was very confident, but my confidence wasn’t enough and Silva dominated most of the fight until he was DQ’ed (Silva delivered an upward head kick while Okami was on his knees). I know my record is listed as 22-4, but in my mind it’s really 21-5 because I do not feel I won that fight with Silva.

I learned a lot from my fight with Silva, the biggest thing I learned was what I needed to improve upon to become a better fighter. I lost the fight with Silva, but I still needed to focus on the things I did well during that fight. I’ve learned that keeping a positive attitude during a fight is key. Now I just tell myself “I can do it. I am strong. I will win!” (laughs)

One of the reasons I want to continue to fight in the UFC is so that I can have a rematch with him. He has improved since our last fight, but so have I.

Do you feel you have any impressive wins in the UFC?

Yes I do. I think during my first three fights I fought out of desperation just so I could win, but going into my fight with Mike Swick I knew it was going to be an important fight for me. The Japanese media really doesn’t care about the UFC even though they have some of the toughest fighters, and it’s the biggest stage for people to compete on. Even though fighters from “The Ultimate Fighter” aren’t well known in Japan, I knew who Mike Swick was, and I knew how popular he was in the US. When I beat him my confidence soared, however I lost a lot of that following my next fight.

You’re talking about the fight with Rich Franklin right?

Yes. That loss made me realize what a world class fighter really was.

After your loss to Franklin you went on to have two victories over tough opponents (Jason Macdonald and Evan Tanner), and you were next in line for a title shot until you injured your hand. Can you tell us about that?

It was the first serious injury I’ve ever had in my life. I’ve never broken a bone, or been seriously injured before, but I guess it was good because it tested my mental toughness as well as my physical toughness.

Previously, I never really took any time off following any of my fights. I was always happy to return home and get back to training even if it was the day right after the fight. After my injury I’ve realized that I need to rest for at least one week following my fights. I need to give not only my body, but my mind a break.

Fighting in the UFC reminds me of the tournament style fights that Japanese fans like to watch, but this tournament has no brackets. I’m always concerned with whether or not I will win or lose, and how exciting my fight will be because I might not have a second chance. That is why I looked at this injury as a blessing; While I couldn’t spar or work on my striking, I could train other aspects of my body. I was dedicated to re-building my body to be much stronger, quicker, and to have more power.

My normal weight is about 218lbs right now. When I first started in the UFC my typical weight was 194lbs. Now I feel like I have a lot more power, and speed to use against my opponents. Right now my weight is 205lbs. I eat three times a day, but as long as I refuse fat and deep fried foods I will make my weight with no problem.

During your recovery time the UFC gave your title shot to Patrick Cote, and other fighters have risen in the ranks ahead of you. When you do you think you’ll be ready for your title shot?

The UFC had to really think about offering me a title shot against Anderson Silva, but they knew it was my dream so they presented it to me. I knew I wanted to fight him again, but I knew that I only wanted to fight him when I was 100% and could perform to my full potential. It was hard for me to give up the title shot, and I know that I will have to work hard to get the opportunity again, but I also like the opportunity to fight other talented guys in my division.

A lot of people say that the UFC’s Middleweight division has the least amount of depth to it, but when you look at the fighters we have I don’t feel that to be true. We have Demian Maia, Rodimar Toquninho, Dan Henderson, Wilson Gouveia, Thales Leites, Michael Bisping, Patrick Cote, Ricardo Almeida, etc.

We have so many talented fighters from all over the world I don’t understand how people can say that. Going back to your question, how can I regain my title shot? I need to continue to beat the best fighters in the world. The UFC champions are the greatest fighters in the world, and if I want to challenge them I need to continue to fight and beat guys like I mentioned before. It’s my job.

Thank you very much for your time Yushin. We appreciate you talking with us, and good luck in your next fight.

It was my pleasure. I am very happy to be able to give an interview to Budovideos.com, and I want to say thank you to all of my supporters and training partners.

Tags: Interviews

Tags: Jiu-Jitsu Book Instructionals

Article by: Joe Romero    Photos by: Dave Mandel

The following article was previously featured in Vol. 6 of the Budovideos magazine (now called Martial Generation Magazine). Former PRIDE champion, and current UFC Middleweight contender, Dan Henderson talked with us prior to his UFC 93 main event fight with Rich “Ace” Franklin. In the article, Dan talks about how he got his start in MMA, his life outside of the octagon, and his plans for the future.

Located in southwestern Riveside County, Temecula, CA is home to approximately 101,000 people, and welcomes thousands more each year for it’s annual Wine Festival. Known primarily for it’s wineries, highly sought after golf courses, and historic buildings located in Old Town Temecula, not many people would think that the warm desert city is also home to one of the most decorated, and accomplished athletes ever to compete in MMA: Dan Henderson.

One look at Henderson’s resume and even the harshest critics would have to admit that he’s one of the best in the world. For most it’s not his devastating KO power, or his granite chin that they love to watch, it’s the overwhelming display of heart he shows each time he steps into the cage that has continued to wow people throughout his storied career.

While Dan has certainly earned his spot among the top fighters in the world, there’s more to this California native than just knockouts and world titles. He’s part owner of one of the top gyms in all of MMA – Team Quest, he’s got his own line of clothing (Clinch Gear), and he’s also a family man.

In the following interview Dan spends some time with us, and shares his thoughts on a variety of subjects spanning his life both in and out of the spotlight. From fighter to family man, Dan Henderson is one of the most multi-dimensional people you’re likely to talk to, and he shows no signs of slowing down in his personal or professional life.

Dan Henderson made his MMA debut at the Brazil open in the summer of 1997. “I was nervous. Didn’t know what to expect, and the tournament was being held in Brazil which made me a lot more nervous. I had never really sparred, and I had about two weeks of MMA training leading into the fight – so yeah, I was nervous.” Despite his lack of experience, Dan scored a first round TKO over Crezio de Souza and went on to win the Brazil open (a four man Heavyweight tournament). An new MMA star was born.

A year later Dan made his debut for a fledgling company named the UFC, and went on to become it’s first Middleweight champion. “After that I did about one event a year, and in 2000 after the Olympics I made the transition into MMA fulltime” he replies, thinking about his earlier years. Following his UFC tournament win Dan went on to compete in the RINGS: King of Kings tournament in Tokyo, Japan. The tournament would pit some of toughest fighters in the world (including current UFC interim Heavyweight champion Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira) against each other to see who would emerge victorious. Dan went on to win all five of his fights and become the RINGS: King of Kings tournament champion.

On December 9th, 2000 Dan joined the PRIDE organization and suffered his first career loss via unanimous decision) against PRIDE superstar Wanderlei Silva. Following that loss, Henderson would go on to win his next three fights including a KO victory over MMA legend Renzo Gracie in 2001. During his seven year stay within the PRIDE organization, Dan amassed a 13-5 record and made PRIDE history becoming it’s first ever Welterweight champion, and Welterweight tournament champion, however Dan’s history making fights didn’t end there. At PRIDE 33: The Second Coming (2007) Henderson was scheduled to meet Wanderlei Silva (who had beaten him seven years before) for Silva’s Middleweight (205lbs) title in the night’s main event. “I think they (PRIDE) needed a big name to put up against Wanderlei on the US show an – an American. I had just beaten Vitor (Belfort) at the first US show so they approached me about fighting Wanderlei for the title and I said ‘sure’. I don’t really think they expected me to win – especially in the way that I ended up winning.”

With his KO win over Silva, Henderson became the first man in MMA history to hold two titles at the same time in two different weight classes. “It was definitely one of the proudest moments in my career” Dan remarks with his usual calm demeanor. “They wanted me to go out and put on a good show which is what I did, just not the way they expected.”

After PRIDE was bought out by the UFC (who had now become the top organization in the 9 years since he had fought for them) in 2007, Henderson again found himself fighting inside the world famous octagon. His first fight was at UFC 75: Champion vs. Champion and was billed as a title unification bout between himself and (then) current UFC Light Heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. Henderson found valiantly, but ultimately lost a unanimous decision victory to Jackson.

Henderson’s next fight would again be a title unification bout at UFC 82: Pride of a Champion against current UFC Middleweight champion Anderson Silva. While Henderson took the first round by pressuring his opponent and out striking him, it would be Silva that would emerge victorious by submitting Dan with just 10 seconds left in the second round. “I was disappointed by my performance because I don’t feel that I lived up to my full potential. I hadn’t cut weight in awhile, and I didn’t do it properly for that fight – my body just felt tired during the second round.”

Following his fight with Silva, many fans questioned whether or not Henderson would continue to compete within the UFC. Their questions were answered when the UFC scheduled him to fight at UFC 88: Breakthrough against BJJ black belt Rousimar Phalhares. “Heading into this fight I didn’t feel any added pressure at all. I’m always excited to get back in the cage and fight, so I was looking forward to it.”  Dan scored a unanimous decision victory against Palhares (his first UFC victory in 10 years), and was once again back on the right track in his career.

Currently scheduled to fight former UFC Middleweight champion Rich “Ace” Franklin at UFC 93: Dublin on January 17th, 2009 Dan has been hard at work training with members of Team Quest in his hometown of Temecula, CA. “I would say 2/3 of the e-mails and messages I get are from people asking me when I’m going to fight Rich. I know it’s something the fans have been wanting to see and I think the UFC picked up on that and put it together. I’m just excited to go in there and challenge myself against a tough opponent. Rich is a well rounded fighter with some long arms and some good kicks. His striking is definitely his strong point, but it just so happens to be one of mine too.”

Added to the mix of his main event fight against Franklin, the UFC has reported that the winner of the fight will go on to serve as the coach of “Team U.S.A” on the ninth season of the popular TV series “The Ultimate Fighter” opposite current UFC Middleweight Michael “The Count” Bisping (17-1). “I’m actually really excited about that idea. I’ve represented my country twice in the Olympics, and I would be honored to represent them again with the new format the show is taking. I’ve been in the game a long time, and I think I’ve got a lot to show a younger group of guys.”

On top of his grueling training schedule Dan still tries to maintain a normal family life with his wife Alison and their three children. “It’s tough to do. I’m gone so much in between fights and training that I miss out on a lot of what my kids have going on in their lives.

They know what I do, but it’s all they’ve ever known so I’m not sure if they realize how different it is from the jobs their friend’s Dad’s have. Last year they talked a lot about the Olympics at school, and everyone thought it was cool that their Dad was in the Olympics twice. They actually watch a lot of my fights, and what’s funny is they don’t get nearly as nervous as my wife does (laughs).” While Dan spends most of his time away from his actual family, he’s also quick to admit that his teammates at Team Quest have become like a second family to him, “We’re definitely strong as a team” he remarks “we’re a very close knit team, and I’d say we’re more of a family than anything. There’s a lot of loyalty at Team Quest, and if you’re not loyal then you usually won’t stick around too long.”

While the California native doesn’t want to look past his upcoming fight with Franklin, Henderson was also quick to bring up one particular fighter that he’s eager to get a shot at again. “I’m usually not really big on rematches, but another fight with Anderson Silva is something I’m really looking forward to. I think given another opportunity it would be a much different fight. My plan would be to stand and bang with him for awhile, and then take him down when the opportunity presented itself. I feel that I match up well with him, and I know I can beat him.” Dan was also very candid with his thoughts on the current state of MMA and the direction it’s headed. “I’ve always said that the sport would be huge, it’s just a matter of getting people to watch it. There’s so much more excitement and action than a kickboxing or boxing match. I think once you get people to watch it once they’re pretty much hooked.” While on the subject of MMA’s current state Henderson also brought up his feelings on the recent number of MMA promotions that have been forced to close their doors, and if he feels there is a company out there that can challenge the UFC. “I honestly think it’ll be awhile before anyone can challenge the UFC”  he remarks with a great deal of confidence. “Right now you’ve got a lot of these guys bitching about a bunch of different things, but what they don’t realize is how much the UFC has fast tracked the popularity of the sport. Sure they take the lion’s share of the profit, but I have a hard time complaining because they’ve made me and a lot of other people a good amount of money. The UFC is still a business and that’s what I think people tend to forget.”

Henderson definitely has his opinions about the UFC, it’s fighters, and the sport in general, however he expressed the fact that he generally likes to stay away from things like that. “I’m just doing my thing and trying to win. I don’t really get too involved in what other guys’ business.” While Dan may be hesitant to get too involved in the political side of the sport, he didn’t shy away from discussing his thoughts on the one topic most professional athletes dread: retirement. When asked how much longer he thinks he has left in him, Dan gave a very realistic answer. “You’d have to ask Randy (Couture) about that one. He’s definitely set the bar pretty high, but in all honesty I have no desire to compete with him for the ‘oldest man still fighting’ title. I’m 38 years old now, and I feel like I’ve still got a few good years ahead of me, but there’s no way I’ll still be fighting at 44.” When I asked him what factors he thought would contribute to his retirement, Dan didn’t mention the typical factors most athletes would list such as age, physical condition, etc. Instead Dan gave a very real, and honest reply. “Honestly I think what’s going to eventually lead to my retirement is my kids. Like I said before, it’s hard being away from them for so long and missing out on the things they’ve got going on, and I know eventually I’m going to reach a point where I’ve done all I can in the sport, and I need to be with my kids.”

During the course of my interview with “Hendo” (the nickname he prefers because “it suits me, and it’s my name”) I came to realize several things about the MMA pioneer. On top of being one of the greatest fighters the sport of Mixed Martial Arts has ever seen, Dan Henderson is also one of the most humble, and honest people you’re ever likely to talk to. While the amount of time left for him to compete may be uncertain, Dan was quick to promise one thing to his legion of loyal fans. “You can expect to see a lot of wins, and a lot of KO’s. My goal is to be champion, and I feel that I have the capability to do that so I’ve just got to keep going out there and racking up wins. The next title shot I get, against Silva, or whoever, I can guarantee one thing: I will not waste that opportunity. I honestly feel that there’s no one that I can’t beat.”

Tags: Interviews

Article by: “The Fight Professor” Stephen Quadros

As 2008 comes to a close, the vice grip dominance that the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has slowly exerted on the sport of mixed martial arts (MMA) is all too apparent. Their plan was simple yet brilliant: Zuffa just kept doing what they were doing and, unlike most of their competitors, they didn’t try to re-invent the wheel or worse, change horses in the middle of the stream. The recent attempts in North America at “competing” with the Las Vegas based giant (UFC) - the International Fight League (IFL), ProElite and Bodog Fight, have fallen short either from listening to the wrong advice from aggressive people (what’s that kissing sound?) who didn’t know a fraction as much as they led you to believe, as opposed to listening to people within your reach, who didn’t play politics or butter you up daily, but were logical and knowledgeable, non-sensible overspending, inexperienced and even lazy management/marketing, concentrating on fighters with pre-existing fame for their stars while not building new marquee talent from within, panicking when you hit rough spots causing general random, quick fix decisions or all of the aforementioned. “Money” or funding wasn’t the problem at first in any of these company’s woes, planning and execution was.

The current last man standing stateside adversary to Zuffa (UFC) seems to be Affliction MMA. While having many famous athletes, at least on the internet, on their first show on July 18, 2008, Affliction: Banned cost the t-shirt manufacturer a reported $3,321,000 in fighter purses alone, while the take at the live gate was $2,085,510.00 (as released by the California State Athletic Commission). Of course there are other figures that factor into the profit/loss equation, like the (ever elusive) accurate number of pay per view buys, TV, radio and magazine advertising costs, facility cost, security cost, TV production cost, sanctioning fees, etc. So as strong a start as it was in some respects (the Fedor Emelianenko versus Tim Sylvia and Ben Rothwell versus Andre Arlovski fights were noteworthy), Affliction Banned may have set the bar too high in their first encounter for the company to sustain, price tag wise, causing the company to be in danger of falling into the

“start with a bang and end with a fizzle” syndrome so popular with other failed attempts.

MMA promotion is a war of attrition and staying power, but that first step/show is one that must be calculated with forethought and wisdom, not haste. Heading into their sophomore effort on January 24, 2009 (again in Anaheim, California) Affliction will feature the return of the world’s greatest fighter, Fedor Emelianenko in the main event against former UFC heavyweight champion Andre Arlovski. While the match is legitimately worthy of being called a title fight, it will most likely not break pay per view records, or be competitive to various UFC main events featuring less internationally storied fighters, simply because Emelianenko has not been marketed in the US to any meaningful extent. Through no fault of his own, Fedor will not draw the kind of numbers worthy of his ranking as a fighter. This is just a fact of television and the way the “uneducated” public (MMA wise), not the hardcore fan base makes decisions on what they will spend their hard earned dollars on for entertainment. And this especially holds true in this present time of national recession.

Scott Coker (Strikeforce) and Monte Cox (Adrenaline MMA, Extreme Challenge), Roland Sarria (Rage In The Cage) and Terry Trebilcock (King of The Cage) are the only functioning, enduring and profitable independent, mid-sized fight promoters currently in existence stateside. Although not considered direct threats/competitors to the UFC, all four of these entities have their own separate ways of maintaining a fan base and operating in the black. Strikeforce can be seen on NBC and King of The Cage airs on pay per view as well as various networks in Canada.

I wish all MMA fight promoters, successful or otherwise, continued prosperity. If success has eluded you in your first attempt, either learn from your mistakes or don’t be too proud to hire someone to pass the mantle onto who can do it better for you.

Knowing when and how to delegate is crucial to getting ahead. Business of any kind are better off when wise choices are made, as opposed to selfish, reckless or irresponsible ones. But then again…this is the fight game (laughs). And if you are enjoying rewards and profits, use your power wisely. After all, American free enterprise is based on competition. Two or more major brands activate a marketplace, but a singularity creates a vacuum, which creates decline for all in the long run.

Now that the show by show forecast is out of the way, there are a few things I’d like to touch upon.

It appears to me that the sport of MMA is heading in two directions at the moment and this dual trend is something that may be irreversible.

On one hand the level of technique, versatility and athleticism present in training and competing is at an all-time high. Less than a decade ago, super talents the level of Georges St. Pierre, Anderson Silva, BJ Penn and Fedor Emelianenko didn’t exist. Now every fighter has the burden of measuring up to a staggering multitude of skills and physical conditioning expectations that are beyond those of other fighting arts such as boxing, Muay Thai and kickboxing. Mixed martial artists of today not only have to know the elements of striking, wrestling and submissions, but they also have to understand and call upon instantly the cohesion that bring the three dimensions together in one flowing and instinctive package. Separatism of technique became extinct years ago with progressive martial artists/fighters. All must act as one to be effective and competitive.

But the downside of this, and other advances, is that the uniqueness and originality, both physically and mentally that made the early MMA contests so compelling visually are gone. And with the exit of the rough edges went some of the unpredictable qualities that were present back in the early days. While Royce Gracie and Kazushi Sakuraba, in America and Japan respectively, were convincing people that grappling in itself was the only thing necessary to prevail in what was called “NHB” (no holds barred), Igor Vovchanchyn and Jose “Pele” Landy were making a case for striking in Russia and Brazil. Perception was everything. Myths lived. The advantage of the now ancient “style versus style” era was that we didn’t know what would happen. Nowadays we have a pretty good idea technically what we’ll see before any bout occurs. We might not always know who is going to win, but the ways to win are all out in the open and available, therefore taking out much of the mystery and surprise of the good old days. I’m not even saying it’s a bad thing either. It just is…

For the most part I enjoy “The Ultimate Fighter” TV show. True, there have been some seasons that have been better than others. But the main thing is that the show finally bore fruit and produced a champion and numerous contenders (light-heavyweight king Forrest Griffin, Rashad Evans, Kenny Florian, Diego Sanchez, Michael Bisping, etc.) and it attempts to show the fun and even human side of MMA athletes; a side that gets buried in the cookie-cut, same old same old production style of bigger network and pay per view broadcasts. I’m not talking about the ‘pranks’ and gross stuff that occasionally happens on TUF, I’m talking about the in-between things that actually show the real personalities of the fighters and coaches. I know some of the people on the program are trying to put on an act to make an impression or to stand out sometimes. Regardless of the forced flamboyance and false histrionics occasionally present, it is the real people, like the gentlemen I mentioned above - Griffin, Evans, Florian, Sanchez, and Bisping who last the longest once the show ends.

But…there are other ways to view what the show represents. In comparing it to what I mentioned in the second to last paragraph, The Ultimate Fighter also has in some ways become a melting pot for martial arts conformity, where the fighters all train together, learn each other’s trade secrets and then lose their individuality as a result. That is a downside that is hard not to fall into in that environment. Alas it may be something that cannot be avoided. But if this sport is truly going to move to a mountainous peak, the way boxing did in the 1960s and 1970s, then we need a star who does not look, walk, talk and act like everybody else. We need originality.

So my advice to fighters, promoters and anyone else on the planet: do the right thing and…be creative. Your legacy will be more enduring as a result.

Stephen Quadros, “The Fight Professor”, has worked as a host and play-by-play commentator for some of the world’s greatest fight organizations including: PRIDE, K-1 and Inoki Bom Ba Ye. He currently balances his activities between acting, working as a analyst/color commentator for Showtime (EliteXC, ShoXC), choreographing fight scenes for feature films and playing drums for the bands Snow and Whipped Cream. Visit Mr. Quadros on the worldwide web at:  www.StephenQuadros.com or  MySpace.com/StephenQuadros.

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