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Science of Jiu Jitsu Podcast #19


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(if you like the show leave a Stitcher review)
The BishopBjj.com Science of Jiu Jitsu Podcast is back… again!
Tyler, Jon, and fan favorite Phil “the Gill” Lampe talk about…

  • Nicknames and other nonsense
  • Pre-workout supplements
  • AJ Agazarm taking over Metamoris’s Instagram (weird story… inside info)
  • Metamoris failures (there’s a lot, and we get off topic making fun of Ralek)
  • Breakdown a real life challenge match (this is weird, you’ll enjoy it)
  • Look at the gross appeal of freak show match-ups
    • Dream match = Huckster vs. Charles Crazyhorse Bennett
  • Talk about street fights
    • Talk about the mass appeal of “Beef Fights”
  • Get way off topic
  • Fuji!

We bring the podcast back with a bang and have a few unexpected guests. The hardcore audience will love this back to our roots podcast. Please leave comments and help us keep the dream alive.
 
 

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Return of Science of Jiu jitsu Podcast – #18

jiu jitsu podcast

Return of Science of Jiu Jitsu Podcast – #18


Tyler, Jena, Jon, and Phil are back and better than ever… well… we’re just back talking crazy rumors, stuff on the forums, and throwing wild accusations and criticisms at respected members of the community. Join us!
You can listen to the latest Science of Jiu Jitsu podcast below, or you can check out the cast of Stitcher. Do us a huge favor, and rate the show on Stitcher. Help us reach more people so we can bring the podcast back full steam.
Listen to the podcast by clicking here to download, or use the player below.

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Show summary

  • Introduction
  • We talk about the long layoff and our hopes for the future
  • We talk about stuff on R/BJJ and the UG
  • We discuss the upcoming Five Grappling invitational
  • We talk about what Metamoris is doing
  • We get way off track for a while and talk about weird stuff
  • Phil tells stories
  • Jon sucks
  • Things get weird again
  • We discuss crazy unfounded rumors
  • Phil makes accusations
  • The show abruptly ends…

We’re happy to be back, and are always working to make the show better. Leave comments below to recommend guests, subjects, and future topics.


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Is Jiu Jitsu Growth Flat?

Is Jiu Jitsu Growth Flat?

jiu jitsu growth

As a digital marketing professional, I spend a ton of time on analytics. I evaluate trends and data to determine how well a campaign, website, piece of media, etc. might perform given the current conditions. I’m also always on the look out for the next technology or subject that will innovate the marketplace.
In doing this, I spend a lot of time looking at product or subject growth. One of the best indicators I have found for this is Google Trends. It’s a very basic tool, and available to everyone. Almost all savvy digital marketing experts use it, because it gives you a very good idea of a subject or topics popularity, and where it’s headed in the future.

Advanced metrics

During a recently product development project, we started looking at advanced metrics to evaluate the timeline for popularity of cloud software inside the manufacturing industry. Simple enough, there were a suite of proprietary tools we used to do this. At the end of the project I kept find myself asking. I wonder what jiu jitsu growth would look like if I was to run it through these same filters?
The results surprised me. Based on all of indicators, and confirmed by Google Trends, is the evidence that suggests that jiu jitsu’s growth is relatively flat. This can’t be so, right? According to social, digital, and popularity data records it is.

Not growing at all?

Jiu Jitsu really hasn’t seen a dramatic rise in popularity in the last 10 years. Although tournaments and organization may have improved, the influx of popularity and new growth simply doesn’t seem to be there. It makes sense too. When someone starts jiu jitsu, they may do it for the rest of their life, or they may quit tomorrow, who knows. Over time there will certainly be more practitioners, but that doesn’t really mean that growth is increasing. Jiu Jitsu’s growth is relatively steady.
Based on subjects of similar scope, it is my opinion that this is likely going to remain fixed. Given all of the cultural and technical innovations that have occurred over the last 10 years, jiu jitsu’s growth rate has held very flat. That leads me to believe it is likely to remain this way.
social trends

So what does that say about jiu jitsu long term?

It’s unlikely that we see some grand explosion in popularity soon. That would require a spike, and based on the environment of the last 10 years, it’s hard to imagine something significant coming along and changing that. That’s not to say that the jiu jitsu population may grow; leading to greater innovation of services, tournaments, and practitioners, but it’s unlikely to see the mainstream jiu jitsu growth that many are clamoring for.


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Respect Jiu Jitsu -1 Google Hangout Stream

Watch the Respect Jiu Jitsu -1 live Google Hangout and YouTube stream here!
The event kicks off at 7pm, with our broadcast beginning just prior. The link will not work until we are live, so don’t freak out :).
Be sure to interact with Tyler and Phil during the Respect Jiu Jitsu. Ask for certain views or inquire about match details and they will do their best to answer on air.
YouTube stream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmeieM7_Vk0
 

Respect Jiu Jitsu

respect jiu jitsu -1
The goal of BishopBjj.com is to expand and empower the jiu jitsu community. We want to emphasize the science and art of jiu jitsu in fun and exciting ways. We want to highlight what makes jiu jitsu so calculated, but also what makes it so much fun. Our vision is that the studies, videos, and material we produce will ultimately go towards the collective benefit of the field (everyone who visits). We are happy to join the broadcast team of Respect Jiu jitsu.
Tyler and Jena Bishop are black belts inside the Gracie Humaita association (presided over by Master Royler Gracie). They primarily train in St. Louis under black belt Pan American Champion JW Wright. Jena received her black belt in July of 2013, and Tyler received his in July of 2014. They are expected on future Respect Jiu jitsu cards.
 

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Fuji Suparaito Gi Review

fuji suparaito gi review

Review for Fuji Suparaito

The new Fuji Suparaito gi is the newest addition to the Fuji gi line. It is designed as the ideal lightweight kimono. It’s built to be both an everyday training gi for the warmer months, and as a true competition gi for when you really need those extra lbs for weigh-in’s. They currently come in two design schemes: white/navy and blue/neon green. Without further ado, my Fuji Suparaito gi review…

Info for the Fuji gi review

As Fuji sponsored athletes, Jena and I received brand new Suparaito gi’s right before they were released to the market. We have both been very big fans of the Fuji Sekai gi’s, and have talked about that at length on the podcast and in interviews. So to be quite honest, when we first got the gi’s we weren’t sure they could ever become our favorite; as neither of us have to worry much about weight for competition and we don’t mind the heat in the summer. We have both appreciated the durability, utility, and build of the Sekai’s so we weren’t that excited about a new lightweight gi.

First impressions of Fuji Suparaito

Fortunately for us, and credit to Fuji, the Supariato gi encompasses all of the great features that we love about the Sekai in a lightweight model of the gi. There are subtle differences in the gi’s that we will discuss below; however, if you’d like to hear first hand our impressions of the gi – plus the opinion of US Olympian Travis Stevens – check out our latest podcast; as we discuss the gi at length.
suparaito gi review

The look of the Fuji Suparaito:

The Suparaito gives you two completely different color schemes to choose from. Those interested in a  more traditional appeal will likely gravitate towards the white w/ navy stitching. Those with an eye for flash and pop will likely have a greater interest in the blue w/ neon green stitching. Both offer tapering around the skirt, sleeves, and pant legs that add bonus utility while also keeping the gi slim fitting and functional.
The tapering makes playing lapel guard against someone with this gi very difficult, as the gi does not lose form. It is a very pratical gi for guard passers in my opinion. Training partners that want to drill worm guard with you will rue this gi.
The gi offers a suberb mix of traditional Fuji style with a modern splash of color and design. The Suparaito – like the Sekai – finds that proper balance between style and functionality without going over the top.
best gi pants

Feel of the Fuji Suparaito:

The obvious difference between the Suparaito and the Sekai is the weight of the gi. Both offer what is in my opinion, the most flexible and secure fit available on the market today. Depending on what you like, the Suparaito may offer even more comfort when rolling. The lightweight feel, combined with the tapered fit, provides a very nice fit of the gi.
This means that the gi doesn’t slide around on you. Many gi’s will leave you with that sensation that you’re “swiming” in it once it gets wet and worn. The Sekai and Suparaito both are designed well enough that this is never a problem.

Many gi’s will leave you with that sensation that you’re “swiming” in it once it gets wet and worn.

What’s more, Fuji has utilized a familiar material for the top and pants of the Suparaito. Our favorite feature of the Sekai has long been the design that prevented the gi from stretching (even when soaking wet). This helps with grip-breaking, prevents the gi from moving around on you, and help maintain proper fit despite wear.best lightweight gi
The Suparirato maintains these same beneficial features; even in a lightweight form. This is very impressive. You would be hard-pressed to find another lightweight gi on the market that doesn’t stretch in the sleeves when wet. We have yet to encounter one.
Additionally, the Suparaito utilizes the same rip stop/cotton blend pants as the Sekai. These are some of my favorite pants. They feel very light, and offer a smooth fit without restriction.

Utility of the Fuji Suparaito lightweight gi:

Much like the Sekai, the Suparaito comes with a tapered and shortened skirt. This may be one of the best features available in modern gi’s. If you hate passing the lapel guards as much as I do, the Sekai and Suparaito are must haves. There are actually escapes/transitions that I won’t use unless I’m wearing one of these new Fuji’s.
Another great feature that we’ve mentioned above is the lack of stretching in the material. This is such a necessary function. When you’re passing the guard the last thing you want is your opponent being able to pull added dexterity from your gi material. The Suparaito material does not stretch. This makes breaking grips and controlling grips much easier; as any give in the gi only strengthens your opponents grips.
Ultimately, the utility in this gi comes primarily from the shortened skirt and stretch-less material. Both features have become a luxury I would hate to live without. If you like to pass the guard, you can use this gi as a weapon.
fuji gi review

Overall Impression of Fuji Suparaito vs. Sekai:

This will quickly become one of the most sought after gi’s for competition BJJ. The lightweight mix of style and utility make this a top tier gi on the market. It also is currently has a very affordable price tag. There are instances in which I would prefer the Sekai, and instances in which I would prefer the Suparaito. The best solution is to own one of both. This gi get’s my strongest recommendation.

Note: I am sponsored by Fuji. I only wear Fuji gi’s now; however you guys know me, I am going to give my honest opinion always. If you listen to the podcast, you know this 🙂

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Podcast: Tony Pacenski and Travis Stevens

Listen/Stream on Stitcher:

Our latest podcast breaks down Metamoris 4, talks JJGF with the co-founder, Tony Pacenski. We we talk about BJJ in the Olympics, BJJ sponsorship, and more w/ guest Travis Stevens (2x Judo Olympian).  It’s nearly 3 hours of awesome, unique bjj talk.

Tony Pacenski –  JJGF co-founder, BJJ black belt

Tony talks about the JJFG, how it was founded, what it was like to get to know Rickson personally, and what he has technically learned from Rickson. Tony also tells us about some of the recent confusion around the Vulkan Open rules and the JJGF. He also lays out the vision for the JJGF long term, and tells us what other organization the endeavor is modeled after. A lot of great new information about a subject that has many hopeful for the future of sport BJJ

Travis Stevens –  2x Judo Olympian, BJJ black belt

Travis discusses the main difference between sport BJJ and sport Judo, what the different communities are like, and the differences in professionalism in both sports. Travis also candidly shares his sponsorship arrangements in Judo, and compares them to what is offered in BJJ. This dovetails off a comment he also made about competing in IBJJF tournaments as well. The result is a very sobering outlook on the current state of modern BJJ, especially as it relates to the $$$ that is involved with the sport.

Listen Now:

 

 

 

 

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World Jiu Jitsu Championship 2014 – Podcast Breakdown

BishopBjj.com Podcast Breaking Down Worlds

Check out our latest podcast as we discuss a variety of World Jiu Jitsu topics including:
–       What’s on the docket?
o   Complete Worlds Breakdown

  • Stories
  • Results
  • Trends
  • Futures
  • Memories

o   Eddie Bravo Invitational talk
o   Bloody Elbow article conversation
o   New techniques in BJJ

  • Worm guard

o   Jiu Jitsu Pet Peeves
o   Jons Sour Grapes
o   Jena’s Hate Corner
o   Roosters jiu jitsu travel tip
o   Mikes nerd topic
o   Phil’s Thoughts
 

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Tyler and Jena Bishop on Open Mat Radio Podcast

 
oprCheckout Tyler and Jena on the Open Mat radio podcast! They discuss their jiu jitsu, backgrounds, womens  jiu jitsu, their recent experience in Abu Dhabi, and drug-use in jiu jitsu among other things. The interview dives into a host of jiu jitsu issues. Open Mat radio is one of the highest quality shows on the market. We highly recommend supporting the show.
http://www.openmatradio.com/2014/04/27/episode-100-tyler-and-jena-bishop-of-bishopbjj-com/

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Jiu jitsu Podcast #14 : Inside Story World Pro Jiu Jitsu

4-28-2014
Check out the latest edition of out podcast featuring the inside story on Abu Dhabi World Pro, and much much more!

 

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Winners and Losers – Post-Metamoris III

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By: Tyler Bishop
So the latest installment of Metamoris has finally happened, and the promotion delivered their largest and most anticipated event to date. The event was hyped from the beginning, selling out live attendance on the first day tickets were publically available. But did it live up to the hype?
The events success  depends on who you ask, and what their opinion is about jiu jitsu competition. The facts are as follows; the live experience, stream, and production were more successful and more dynamic than the previous two shows, even though Jeff Glover had many moments that likely had audience members burying their hands in their faces. The updated and streamlined production with little filler between matches provided a well-organized, no-nonsense display for fans. The event appeared professional and provided an adequate stage for top competitors while allowing true fan to appreciate the performance.
While only 2 of the 6 matches on the card finished in submission, many of the matches maintained a high-level of excitement despite the matches finishing in a draw. In fact, the most exciting match of the entire night, the headliner, resulted in a draw; however, it is now being heralded as one the most exciting matches in recent history online. The rule set itself is still not perfect. Some of the  competitors still have not adjusted to the proper way to compete in these matches, and the end result is often a strange series of events (see Lister/Sobral). However, quite subjectively, I can say that this card was more exciting than the past two, and that seems to be the general consensus among popular online jiu jitsu destinations as well.
To improve future shows, Metamoris will likely need to improve the rule set and evolve and build upon current models, but all-in-all Metamoris III appears to have been a success (in terms of execution). Once stream purchase numbers are tallied, I’m sure the organizers will be able to tell you one way or the other if the show was truly a success.
To improve action in the future, perhaps future events should consider four 5 minute rounds, or perhaps two 10 minute rounds. I often advocate this approach based on the success of the old Rickson Budo Challenge event (one of the greatest ever held). Many have never heard or seen of this event, but it provided some the most exciting matches in history. Metamoris and others would be smart to evaluate this extraordinary past event for future ideas.
Using staggered criteria, I think it’s fair to say Metamoris and the fans watching were winners on Saturday evening, but among the other parties involved, who were winners and who were losers? I do my best below to breakdown the events beneficiaries below. Enjoy!
 

Winner: Zak Maxwell, and Guard Passing in Sub-Only events

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While the Sean Roberts/Zak Maxwell match ended in a draw, the last 10 minutes were a great display of cat and mouse between Zak and Sean. With so many lighter competitors developing dangerously dynamic guards, it has become difficult for those with a guard passing-style in those lighter weight classes. While the start of this match was a reflection of this construct – with both competitors attempting guard work – Zak made the decision to play the top position about halfway through the match. What was so interesting about this was the strategy that I believe he revealed to all future Metamoris competitors.
Although Zak had to weather the early storm of guard attacks from Sean – fending off multiple omoplatas and armlocks – he was eventually able to find his stride and pass the guard and secure several dominant positions and very close submissions. The final minutes were all Maxwell. What future competitors should glean from this is the flexibility that the Metamoris rule set allows. Typically competitors fear playing against another top guard player due to the threat of being swept or submitted; however if the you can get past the fear of being submitted – under Metamoris rules, competitors can gain a new level of comfort. Let me explain. Let’s say Zak determined that he could avoid the guard submissions. If that’s the case, then all he has to fear are sweeps. Well, there are no points for sweeps and if the opponent wants to play guard it’s likely they will not follow-up on the sweep if they land it. Basically, if you can stay out of submissions you are granted unlimited guard passing attempts. Zak exposed this in the rules and the current dynamic, and almost secured several submissions for his efforts.
It will be interesting to see if others employ this method of attack in the future. In my opinion, both Sean and Zak come out looking very well in this match, but Zak’s display of jiu jitsu exemplified an interesting dynamic about guard passing under these unique circumstances.
 

Loser: Rafeal Mendes

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Rafael Mendes is anything but a loser. However, in this event he did not grow the brand of the Rafa Mendes legend.  Our site has routinely featured Mendes for his dynamic style and dominance, but his performance in this event was a little uninspired.
Although Rafa displayed just how smooth and beautiful his berimbolo attack can be, he was unable to get it to find it’s mark against a very skilled Clark Gracie. It is not my intention to take away from Clark’s performance in my critique of Mendes, rather a critique of Rafa’s approach to the match. Even after 15 minutes of solid berimbolo defense from Gracie, Mendes refused to try a different strategy. Now, I realize I am now calling for a top competitor to play outside his game (something against our scientific analysis’), but Rafa is being debated as one of the best grapplers on the planet. Surely, he could have tried to showcase himself in another area in which he is dominant. Those that watch his AOJ rolling videos were waiting for those flashes of pure domination seen on film. But Mendes seemed determined to stick to a plan that was doomed from the start. The frustration from many seems to really stem form the conservative approach this seems to be from someone who is being debated as one of the best in the game right now. Fair or unfair, a draw wasn’t good enough for Rafael Mendes.

Winner: Eddie Bravo (and his No-Gi techniques), Royler, and the fans

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Most fans, myself included, saw the Royler-Bravo matchup as a one-sided affair waiting to happen. As the match began, it looked like that was exactly what it was going to be. However, Bravo showed a lot of heart dealing with the unrelenting pressure passing of Royler early on (someone who made that style of passing famous). Bravo was then successfully able to execute several of his patented sweeps and submission attempts to one of the greatest of all time. The match was back and forth, and ultimately Bravo proved to be more than just a  game opponent. He showed that he belonged in that environment, and that many of the techniques he has often been criticized for hold legitimate application. Bravo did exactly what he was trying to do for years, prove that he could compete with Royler, and that his first win wasn’t some kind of fluke.
Royler and Bravo both come out looking very good after such a great fight. It was the most exciting of the night and included two competitors with a combined age of 90! Both should inspire the next generation on a series of different levels. While I think everyone on the planet would be excited to see a third match, I am quite sure that will be the last time either fighter competes ever again.

Loser: Those that didn’t purchase the live stream

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I’m sure many will now complain that we are schilling for Metamoris, but the truth is we’re not…at all. For those that are podcast listeners, you know that Jena and I have never advocated sub-only events. We have also both criticized past events as well. However, this event was a great event to watch, and ended up being a very entertaining production. It was far from perfect in just about every faucet, but it was good enough for anyone that is a fan of jiu jitsu to enjoy. As the rules and production quality evolve, it should be expected that this type of entertainment should continue. It still isn;t to level that the average person could enjoy, but we are fast approaching that era in my opinion.
Most of all, those that missed out on Gracie-Bravo II will never be able to duplicate the intensity of watching that match live. Although the video is widely available online right now, watching the event live felt historical. It was a throwback to the early legendary matches of jiu jitsu that live in todays history books. If you missed it, you truly missed out.

Winner: Kevin Casey

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Many only know Kevin Casey by reputation only. Casey is famous for several jiu jitsu controversy’s, including but not limited to; the Spencer Pratt fiasco. However, to take a grappling match on that huge stage against one of the best in the world on only a few hours notice is incredible. It showed true bravery and very little ego. Kevin performed very admirable at the start of the match, and although he faded in the second half, he showcased good technique and was able execute some initiatives against Keenan that few others would have had success with.
Ultimately, I’m not sure it was simply a win-win opportunity by choosing to take the match. Had Casey gone out there and gotten tapped in 2 minutes or less, the crowd would have felt cheated, and Casey himself would have looked like a chump for thinking he could compete with someone of Keenan’s caliber on short notice. However, he competed very well and ended up looking as good as anyone else on the card.
 
What are your thoughts on M3?