“The Jiu‐Jitsu that I created was designed to give the weak ones a chance to face
the heavy and strong. It was so successful that they decided to create a sportive
version of it. I would like to make it clear that of course I am in favor of the
sportive practice and technical refinement of all athletes, whatever their
specialty may be, as well as good nutrition, avoidance of
addictions and unhealthy habits.
The problem lies in the creation of a sport‐oriented Jiu‐Jitsu, based on rules and
time limits, which benefits the heavier, stronger, and more athletic individuals.
The primary objective of Jiu‐Jitsu is to empower the weak who, for not having
the physical attributes, are often intimidated. My Jiu‐Jitsu is an art of selfdefense
in which rules and time limits are unacceptable. These are the reasons
for which I can’t support events that reflect an anti Jiu‐Jitsu.”
– Grand Master Helio Gracie
