- Full Name: Roger Gracie Gomes
- Birthday: September 26, 1981
- Affiliation: Gracie Barra, Black House
Roger Gracie is an icon in the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with impressive results in international competitions. He was born in Rio on September 26, 1981 and started training at a young age like the rest of his illustrious family. His mother, Relia, is the daughter of BJJ legend Carlos Gracie. His father, Mauricio Motta Gomes, is considered as one of the best practitioners of his generation.
Early Life and Training
While it seems that Roger was destined for greatness, he did have to work hard to achieve mastery of the sport. He was initially noncommittal about being a fighter but training with his uncles and cousins gave him the motivation to get better. His father’s problems with the law forced them to move to England where they set up schools to spread the martial arts. Roger would sometimes go back to Brazil for training at Gracie Barra.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8Qhl-jmeNs
BJJ Achievements
He started competing on an international stage as a blue belter winning multiple championship titles. After he received his black belt in 2004, he dominated in the ADCC Submission World Wrestling Championship. His record of 8 wins in 8 matches all via submission at both heavyweight and absolute weight is a feat that has never been achieved before. Roger once again proved unbeatable at the 2009 Mundials by using his favorite move – choke from the mount. He has a total of 10 wins at the World BJJ Championships since entering as a black belt.
Mixed Martial Arts Career
It was only a matter of time until he caught the MMA bug. Roger’s first matches provided a glimpse of his potential as a prize fighter. Two first round wins via submission against top quality veteran opponents showed just how dangerous he is in the ring. He was signed by Strikeforce in 2009, winning against Kevin Randleman and Trevor Prangley via rear-naked choke. However, he was knocked out by Muhammed Lawal before bouncing back against Keith Jardine and Anthony Smith. He signed up with UFC in 2013 but lost to Tim Kennedy via decision. His professional record currently stands at 7 wins and 2 losses with his most recent fight being a victory in the light heavyweight division against James McSweeney.
Continuing the Gracie Tradition
Roger Gracie founded a BJJ training academy named after him in London. He still works there as the head instructor when he isn’t out competing in MMA, thus continuing the legacy of his grandfather and helping the next generation to reach their full potential.
