Jiu-jitsu is a martial art known for its long and rich history and is renowned for its techniques and strategic prowess. However, like any competitive sport, it is not immune to controversies.
Thus, certain sports personalities have created more drama than others, becoming among the most disliked and hated jiu-jitsu grapplers.
This article explores the wrestlers’ identities, the reasons behind their infamy, and their impact on the sport.
The Most Hated Jiu-Jitsu Grapplers
5. Rousimar Palhares
Palhares has a reputation that precedes him due to his dangerous approach to the sport. He is infamously known for holding onto submissions too long, particularly heel hooks, even after opponents have tapped out, risking severe injury.
This was notably seen in his match against Jake Shields, where Palhares cranked a Kimura after the tap and engaged in eye-gouging.
Rousimar’s actions have led to widespread distaste within the Jiu-Jitsu community, considering that such behavior goes against the core values of respect and safety in the sport.
4. Rener Gracie
Rener is a prominent Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu figure known for his charisma and the business acumen that brought Gracie University to the forefront.
However, he has faced criticism for commercializing Jiu-Jitsu, mainly the issuance of blue belts online, which many purists argue diminishes the value of physical training and direct mentorship traditions in the sport.
While Rener’s marketing strategies are successful, they have rubbed many in the Jiu-Jitsu community the wrong way, accusing him of prioritizing profit over the art’s integrity.
3. Eddie Bravo
The founder of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, Eddie Bravo, is a revolutionary figure in the No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu scene.
His victory over Royler Gracie in 2003 catapulted him to fame but also sparked controversy due to his non-traditional techniques and advocacy for conspiracy theories, including flat earth belief.
Bravo’s alterations to traditional Jiu-Jitsu forms and terminologies have stirred up significant debate about the sport’s respect for traditional practices versus its innovation.
4. Gordon Ryan
Ryan is known for his exceptional sports skills and achievements, including multiple ADCC championships.
Despite his success, he is often criticized for his perceived arrogance and aggressive behavior, especially on social media, where he openly accuses others of steroid use while being suspected of the same.
Gordon’s provocative nature has created a polarized perception among fans and practitioners, earning him a spot as one of the most controversial athletes in Jiu-Jitsu.
5. Dillon Danis
A black belt under Marcelo Garcia, Danis gained notoriety for his skills and significantly for his antics outside the mat, especially after aligning with MMA star Conor McGregor.
Dillon’s behavior on social media, which many see as a mimicry of McGregor’s bold style, has attracted significant criticism and has led to him being perceived more negatively than positively within the community.
Danis’s approach to public interactions has often overshadowed his contributions to the sport, making him a particularly divisive figure.
See Also: Basic Jiu-Jitsu Positions: Your Key to Grappling Success!
Conclusion
These five most hated jiu-jitsu grapplers caused controversy in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu due to their actions. Despite their contributions, their conduct made them disliked in the community.
While they impacted the sport, they also sparked endless debates. Jiu-Jitsu embodies growth, respect, and discipline beyond individual actions.
Thank you for joining us in exploring martial arts. More insights from the mat to come!
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