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"It's Science" Videos

Jiu Jitsu Science: Miyao's

miyao

It’s Science: The Miyao Brothers

Full study available in the next issue of Jiu Jitsu Style Magazine.
Notable Study Stats:

  • 86% win rate
  • 88% of submissions came from the back
  • Finished a submission 75% of the time they got the back
  • Submit their opponent in 60% of matches
  • Average match length was approximately 6:50
  • 57% of sweeps were berimbolo-based
  • 50% of passes were of the leg drag variety
  • Scored first in 11 of 15 matches

The Breakdown: When we did our study on Rafael and Gui Mendes we felt it was important to separate their data and evaluate each individually. We did this because both of their games were statistically different. With Paulo and Joao Miyao, this is not the case. The extraordinary Brazilian duo possess nearly identical competition approaches, and so we found it appropriate to include their data together. This way we can all see exactly what the Miyaos’ secrets actually are.
The Study: Anyone who has ever watched one of the Miyao brothers compete should already have a really good idea of where this study is headed. Most of us can imagine the dynamic duo pulling guard and spinning their way to the back for the win; however, what you might not know is just how effective they are at this strategy and how diligent they are with it.
In the matches we viewed the Miyao brothers possessed an 86% win rate. Not only that, but their submission rate was approximately 60%. This means they are finishing nearly 70% of their wins with a submission, at black belt!
Both Paulo and Joao are often criticized for having a very one dimensional game plan and approach in competition. However, we would argue that the consistencies in their game don’t differ much from the diversity that you would see in someone like Rafa Mendes, Rafael Lovato Jr., or Bernardo Faria.
The Miyaos’, as expected, are extremely effective at getting the back via berimbolo. In fact, we even had to add several categories to our static data log to track things appropriately; as it was the only way to categorize correctly what they do. The duo was able to complete a Berimbolo to the back in over 60% of their matches. Once on their opponents back, Joao and Paulo had a 75% finishing rate.
What’s important to keep in mind is that the Miyao brothers are not deficient in other areas of their game as much as they are extremely efficient with the Berimbolo and leg drag. In the instances where they were forced to use other sweeps or guard passes, they were extremely successful.
Ultimately, what’s most impressive about the Miyao’s is how they’ve been able to successfully overcome the learning curve that others have experienced when adapting to their game. At this point, all other competitors know exactly what to expect when they step on the mat against Joao or Paulo. Fortunately for the two brothers, this hasn’t stopped them from executing their strategy. And, while only one of the two currently holds an IBJJF world title, it is fair to expect that it will not be the only one that these two are able to achieve between themselves.

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BishopBjj News

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.

stitcher_160x80

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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BishopBjj News

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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Uncategorized

It's Science: Mackenzie Dern

mackenzie

It’s Science: Mackenzie Dern

Full study (including all the stats and info from the study) will be available in the next issue of Jiu Jitsu Style Magazine
Notable Study Stats:

  • +53% submission percentage (73% in wins)
  • 38% of submissions were footlocks
  • Scored first in 8/11 wins
  • Winning percentage of 72%
  • 42% of sweeps occurred from spider guard
  • Standing passes accounted for 50% of passes
  • Average match length was only 4:48 minutes
  • Had a 14/11 “sweep/pass ratio”

Abstract:
All matches observed of Mackenzie Dern, used in this small sample occurred at IBJJF events, inside her weight division, and in the years 2013-2015. Only techniques, occurrences, and outcomes that were recorded are displayed in the data below (i.e. if no butterfly sweeps occurred, there will not be a representation of that in the sample data charts). Matches were selected at random based on freely available matches. This is a limited sample – but given the estimated amount of matches in this time period – it is well above the percentage necessary to create a scientifically validated trend sampling.
The Breakdown:
Given some of the recent uproar created by Metamoris front man, Ralek Gracie, I decided it was a perfect time to release our first competitor study of a female athlete. While there are certainly a long list of qualified females to choose from. You would be hard pressed to find a more popular and more aggressive female competitor on the scene today. Dern has quickly burst in to the black belt division after a storied career at the lower belt levels. She has yet to win a black belt world title, but has collected several at lower belt levels. So what has made Mackenzie so successful?
Mackenzie boasts a very well-rounded game. When you look at her chart you quickly see that there is a lot of versatility in what see does. She finds way to win in multiple ways. However, there are several things she does exceptionally well. Her aggressive style lends itself very well to submissions. She has one of our highest submissions rates currently recorded in these studies (above 53%). Her submission of choice was the foot lock; which accounted for 38% of her total submissions. She collected more leg locks than any other competitors that we have studied.
This aggressiveness also leads her to scoring first in 72% of her winning matches. This also has exposed her to some risk. Her winning percentage in the study was similarly around 73%. Nevertheless, she makes matches exciting. Her average match length was only 4:48! One of the shortest average match lengths we’ve ever recorded.
Mackenzie’s game did largely revolve around her guard game in the study; which she would often use to sweep her opponents from spider guard. This spider guard also led to several triangle and armbar submissions. Once on top, Mackenzie used several classic Grace Humaita style techniques to pass; consisting of knee over and knee through styles of passes; although the leg drag was largely incorporated as well. Perhaps, this is something she has gleaned from fiancé Augusto Mendes? Either way, her sweep to pass ratio was 14/10 (sweep/pass). This was a very strong balance that led to a wide variety of submissions with footlocks making up the majority.
Ultimately, the talking point that inspired this initial female study has proven to be largely incorrect. In fact, Mackenzie may turn this idea of women not being exciting on its head. She boasts one of the highest submission percentages that we’ve recorded and has an average match length much lower than we’ve seen so far. While women remain a minority in the jiu jitsu population, the rise of young fierce competitors like Mackenzie should continue to inspire more women to get involved and newer jiu jitsu enthusiasts to pay more attention to the exciting action occurring in the womens black belt divisions.

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"It's Science" Videos

It's Science: Lucas Lepri

It’s Science: Lucas Lepri

lucas lepri
Our latest edition of It’s Science features Lucas Lepri. The full article will be published in the next edition of Jiu Jitsu Style Magazine. To see all the awesome graphics and full-data model be sure to subscribe or pick up the next issue. See all previous issues for past subjects.
Notable Study Stats:

  • 64% of his passes occurred from Half guard
  • 87% win percentage
  • 54% Submission percentage in wins
  • Scored first in 12 of 13 recorded wins in study
  • 2nd highest pass per match rate ever recorded (1.13)
  • His average match length was 7 minutes and 31 seconds
  • 43% of his submissions were chokes from the back
  • 30% of passes were knee through passes
  • Took his opponents back in 46% of wins

Abstract: All matches observed of Lucas Lepri, used in this small sample occurred at IBJJF events, inside his weight division, and in the years 2011-2014. Only techniques, occurrences, and outcomes that were recorded are displayed in the data below (i.e. if no butterfly sweeps occurred, there will not be a representation of that in the sample data charts). Matches were selected at random based on freely available matches. This is a limited sample – but given the estimated amount of matches in this time period – it is well above the percentage necessary to create a scientifically validated trend sampling.
The Breakdown: Lucas Lepri is one of the most accomplished grapplers still active today. A multi-time world champion, Lepri has proven himself a staple of consistency over the years. What’s even more impressive is Lepri’s dynamic ability to win tournaments using a wide-variety of strategy’s. In 2014, the world saw Lepri demonstrate his takedown and passing prowess to perfection as Lepri toke down and passed the guard of JT Torres in the world finals. In the past, it has often been Lepri’s stellar guard work and submission propensity that has earned him the world champion moniker. Ultimately, studying Lepri is a treat; as his abilities and skills are so consistent and precise that you immediately understand why he has been so successful to this point.
The Study: When you consider the top guard passers in the game today, a Lepri’s name is often brought up. Our study found that this is most definitely based in reality. Lepri averaged 1.13 passes per match, the second highest we’ve ever recorded (#1 was Gui Mendes). Approximately 64% of his passes occurred from top half guard with the vast majority of his passing finishes being of the knee through variety. This allowed Lepri to often setup one of his dynamic submissions which was the baseball bat choke (also a Gui Mendes favorite). This submission accounted for roughly 15% of his total submissions.
Speaking of submissions, Lepri had a submission rate in matches that he won of 54%. On top of that, his total winning percentage was 87%. Lepri preferred to finish his opponents from the back; as 43% of his submission victories were chokes from the back. Lepri often used his dynamic passing abilities to setup the back take. Half of his bake takes occurred from this type of scenario. Lepri often baits his opponents into defending the guard pass so dramatically that they dictate their backs to him. Lepri makes a living capitalizing on opponent mistakes.
One of the most impressive elements of lepri’s style is his ability to win almost every matchup (i.e. playing bottom or top – in various scenarios). Lepri’s guard game is surgical. He is not as specialized as former subjects like Rafa Mendes or Cobrinha, but he is equally mathematical in his setups and execution. His top sweeping position was sit-up guard (43%), and his top sweep type was a tomonagi style sweep. Lepri is the first subject we’ve studied with a tomonagi as his highest percentage sweep.
Ultimately, Lepri may be the most well rounded competitor we have studied to date. Not just technically, but in his complete application of jiu jitsu in a tournament setting. Lepri has demonstrated the ability to win matches in a variety of ways; top, bottom, by points, by submission, etc. He is a rare model of consistency and excellence that doesn’t show any tangible signs of slowing down any time soon.
 

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"It's Science" Videos

It's Science: Keenan Cornelius

keenan cornelius stat pic
Abstract: All matches observed of Keenan Cornelius, used in this small sample, occurred at IBJJF events, inside his weight division, and in the years 2013-2014. Only techniques, occurrences, and outcomes that were recorded are displayed in the data below (i.e. if no butterfly sweeps occurred, there will not be a representation of that in the sample data charts). Matches were selected at random based on freely available matches. This is a limited sample – but given the estimated amount of matches in this time period – it is well above the percentage necessary to create a scientifically validated trend sampling.
The Breakdown:
There may not be a more powerful figure that has entered the BJJ competition scene in the last 10 years than Keenan Cornelius. Cornelius gained significant attention several years ago when he achieved the self-titled – now famed – accomplishment of weight class and absolute “grand slam”; a series of tournament wins in the largest events of the year. Since this accomplishment, Keenan’s stock has been on the rise.
With that in mind, Keenan’s time at black belt has been both short and dense. Cornelius has missed very few major IBJJF events; giving us a phenomenal sample to study. Contrary to just about every one of our previous study subjects, Cornelius has a very diverse portfolio of techniques that he utilizes in competition. We generally see the winningest competitors use a very short list of techniques in competition; however, Cornelius has been able to muster a winning percentage of 73% using a much more complex strategy.
In addition to a strong winning percentage, we see a positive submission percentage in our data of Cornelius as well. Keenan finished his opponents in approximately 55% of his matches, and his average match length was 7 minutes and 48 seconds – both statistics that match-up almost identically with the data we have on Rodolfo Vieira and Guilherme Mendes. What’s most interesting about all this is the difference in which Cornelius achieves these results.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please check out the November issue of Jiu Jitsu Style Magazine

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BishopBjj News

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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BishopBjj News

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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Interviews

Podcast #16: BishopBJJ team breaks down JJGF and more…

The crew has an all-skate and discusses everything we know about the JJGF as of right now (rumors, truths, etc.), and tries to make sense of it all. We also tell BJJ challenge stories, discuss the rules of BJJ, and what it means to be a black belt.

Have a question for the podcast crew? Submit it here.
[contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]
 

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"It's Science" Videos

It's Science: Royler Gracie (Legends Edition)

royler its science


 By: Tyler Bishop
(stats located below)

Foreword:

Thank you for making It’s Science one of the most popular jiu jitsu pieces on the internet and inside our little community. As many of you may already know, the full length articles, stats, etc. of all our competitor profiles are featured in every issue of Jiu Jitsu Style Magazine. This particular one will be released in the upcoming issue of JJS next month.
This particular episode kicks off our new series of statistical breakdowns featuring legends of the sport. Hopefully this new series can help us further paint a picture as to how jiu jitsu is evolving, by taking a closer look at where is has come from – competitively of course. I found no place more fitting to start than with the Gracie families most decorated sport jiu jitsu competitor, Master Royler Gracie.
This piece was of particular interest to me, as I viewed Royler’s style – from the outside to be different from many modern competition approaches, and I thought that an analysis of his game would prove to be a stark contrast to many past studies. I was both right and wrong. While his game does differ from many of past profiles, the results that he achieved were surprising in light of the results. His ability to play the top and achieve success is primarily where my attention goes in this breakdown, but I don’t think we should stop at that. Royler’s game is as clearly defined as any of the others we have observed in times past. I hope you will enjoy observing the results as much as I did collecting them.


Abstract:

All matches observed of Royler Gracie used in this small sample occurred in his respective weight division between 1994 and the present day. The sampling includes a mixture of both gi and nogi competition. Only techniques, occurrences, and outcomes that were recorded are displayed in the data below (i.e. if no butterfly sweeps occurred, there will not be a representation of that in the sample data). Matches were selected at random based on available matches – selected using a random generator from available matches. This is a limited sample, and one without many of our normal controls such as; unified rules, time limits, etc. This makes the data a little more skewed than what we would normally like to see. However, the data collected did end up accurately representing insightful trends that we can use to draw logical and rational conclusions. As jiu jitsu grows, so does that data.


Breakdown:

Royler Gracie, his name alone bears a connection to the sport itself. As the most decorated sport jiu jitsu competitor of Helio Gracie, Royler, is known for his flexibility, mysterious pressure, and fierce competitiveness. In fact, Royler recently competed once again at the age of 48 against Eddie Bravo in a thrilling match at Metamoris. It’s hard to deny the strong competitive will Royler possess. In fact, the famous picture above almost encapsulates Roylers mystique in-of-it-self. But, what techniques, strategies, and gameplans makeup the Royler Gracie style?
Let’s begin our review of the statistics below with a breakdown of the start of the match. Royler, like many of his generation, proved to be primarily a top game player. He displays a dynamic and smothering style of passing that he has leaned on heavily throughout his career, and the best way to execute that strategy is to start on top from the start. Roylers initial takedown of choice was the ankle pick and a wrestling style double or single leg attempt. It’s fair to mention that because many of these matches occurred in ADCC that many of these takedowns could have been specifically tailored to that format, thus giving them higher incidence than if this study was of only gi competition. These techniques accounted for approximately 78% of all of his initial takedowns.
Another strategy often used to arrive at the top position was a basic sacrifice throw in which he would drop his opponent down quickly into a butterfly style sweep in an attempt to gain the top position. Even if the throw did not work initially, Royler’s butterfly guard proved to be one of his “go to” assets on bottom. His flexibility, combined with his mastery of the technique, allowed him to secure quite a few sweeps from this position. In fact, nearly 42% of the sweeps we observed in the study were from butterfly guard. The nest most common position that he would sweep from was a simple collar sleeve open guard variation (best way to define it) – in which Royler would use butterfly hooks and scissor style sweeps to overtake his opponent. This style of play accounted for approximately 25% of his sweeping positions.
Once on top, there is a reason why many in the jiu jitsu community still refer to the knee through style of pass as the Royler Pass. Of all the competitors we studied, none averaged a higher pass rate than Royler Gracie. Royler passed the guard on average 1.6 times per match. Our next closest competitor was Gui Mendes with 0.78. Royler passed the guard more than twice as much as many of the modern competitors we have recently studied.
Royler’s guard pass of choice was  his signature knee through (or knee cut) style pass. 11 of the 24 guard passes we observed in the entire study were classified in this style (45.8%). However, Royler also utilized leg drag, torrendo, and reverse sitting half guard style passes with a high degree of success as well. Royler executed the majority of these passing sequences from his knees or from the half guard – which is very much juxtaposition from where we have seen it with the majority of the other competitors we have studied. In fact, no other competitor had the majority of their passes start from a kneeling position.
Royler recorded 88% of the submissions we observed from either the back or mount position. 50% of the submissions were chokes from the back while armbars and collar chokes made up the rest. 53% of the matches we observed ended with Royler finishing his opponent by submission.
In the matches we observed he was victorious in 13 of them. He has shown the type of spirit throughout the course of his career that you would expect from a decorated legend like himself. However, the numbers do reveal something very interesting. The dynamics of his style are unique qualities that – in many cases – we have yet to see replicated by any other competitor. In his last match against Eddie Bravo you could still see architecture of his proprietary game. And, while it’s likely we have seen the last of Royler Gracie in the competitive jiu jitsu world, it’s likely there is still a lot we can learn from the matches and legacy he has left behind. This is only a start.


Notable Stats

  • Highest average pass rate per match of any competitor studied so far (1.6 per match)
    • Passed the guard twice as much as the next closest in this category (Gui Mendes)
  • 88% of submissions came from the back or mount
  • Knee through style of pass was used to pass in 46.8% of successful attempts
  • 1/2 of total submissions he secured were chokes from the back
  • Scored first points (when applicable) in every single victory
  • 45% successful passes started from opponents half guard

royler stats graphic