There was a lot said and a lot of opinions expressed after the 20 minute long jiu-jitsu match between Andre Galvao and Ryron Gracie. One of the best quotes came via Rener Gracie’s tweet/instagram:
“I don’t know why Andre was so upset… I can’t tap Ryron either and I’ve been trying for 28 years.”
The fact is: There are different types of jiu-jitsu being played. Players of jiu-jitsu have different motivations for taking up the martial art… And there are also different approaches to the art. When jiu-jitsu becomes a spectator sport, is there or should there be one kind? Some say yes. I certainly say, no.
Watching Ryron (in the match above) reminded me of boxer Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker in his prime. Whitaker was a masterful, defensive boxer that many fans disliked watching. Those that knew boxing saw genius and couldn’t look away. There is an obvious genius in Ryron’s game, mixing outstanding defensive maneuvering and thoughtful attack.
After the allotted time was over, Andre spoke with commentator Rener Gracie and spoke his mind. Many were disappointed over his lack of humility, and although I didn’t care for it, I found it understandable. Andre is a person whose drive is competition and he was up against someone whose drive is to “Keep it Playful.” Even though Ryron had it in him to win (submission only), his nature, training and goal was to show HIS jiu-jitsu – that is to say, his family’s jiu-jitsu.
Andre said (wanting to set up a rematch), “…I could set up a fight on my rules and see who wins.” And although “the rules” are unclear, the fact remains that a submission was never achieved (which reminds me of the famous Helio quote, “If you don’t lose, you win.”). But my personal thought is this, “Everyone has their arena.” Those that want tournament style can join or watch the tournaments. Those who want to test their might in the arena of fighting can join the UFC. But if you want to test your jiu-jitsu – the way YOU play jiu-jitsu – this event was such a platform and I am looking forward to watching more.
I can’t wait.
I’d like to leave you with the words of my friend and jiu-jitsu extraordinaire, Ari Bolden who said (in regard to this event),
“Jiu Jitsu isn’t some philosophical concept that is to be debated over and over on Internet forums (like that means anything at all). You DO it. You live it. It makes you a better person.”
Golden Thread Workshops, NC
RELATED POST:
Keith Owen’s Blog: From The Ground Up: Metamorphis
combativecorner.wordpress.com 