Jason Brinn recently received his Black Belt certification from the JJGF and the signed certificate from legendary Rickson Gracie himself. Jason officially received his Black Belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu back on January 28, 2021 and then applied for membership and certification through the JJGF which was researched and verified on May 2, 2023.
The JJGF refers to the Ju-Jitsu Global Federation. It is an international organization that promotes and supports the practice and development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and traditional Japanese Ju-Jitsu. The JJGF strives to preserve the values, techniques, and traditions of these martial arts disciplines while fostering a sense of community and collaboration among practitioners worldwide.
The JJGF is committed to advancing the art and sport of Ju-Jitsu by providing resources, educational programs, and opportunities for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to black belts. It works closely with affiliated academies and instructors to ensure high standards of training, instruction, and competition.
In addition to promoting technical excellence and skill development, the JJGF emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect within the Ju-Jitsu community. It organizes and sanctions tournaments, seminars, and training camps to facilitate the growth of the sport and foster camaraderie among practitioners from different regions and backgrounds.
The JJGF also plays a crucial role in promoting the values and benefits of Ju-Jitsu beyond the mat. It supports research, education, and outreach initiatives that highlight the positive impact of martial arts training on physical fitness, mental well-being, self-defense, and personal development.
As a global federation, the JJGF welcomes practitioners, academies, and organizations from around the world who share a passion for Ju-Jitsu. By uniting the Ju-Jitsu community under a common vision, the JJGF aims to elevate the standards, visibility, and recognition of Ju-Jitsu as a martial art, sport, and way of life.
The history of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is rich and deeply rooted in the lineage of several influential figures. Let’s explore the journey from Jigoro Kano to Jason Brinn, the head instructor of Good Fight Way.
Jigoro Kano: The story begins with Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo. In the late 19th century, Kano developed Judo by merging various styles of traditional Japanese Ju-Jitsu. He sought to create a martial art that focused on effective techniques while also emphasizing character development and personal growth.
Mitsuyo Maeda: One of Kano’s most accomplished students was Mitsuyo Maeda, also known as Count Koma. Maeda was a skilled Judoka who traveled the world, engaging in challenge matches and spreading the art of Judo. During his travels, Maeda eventually arrived in Brazil, where he would have a profound impact on the Gracie family.
Carlos Gracie: Carlos Gracie, the eldest son of Gastão Gracie, was introduced to Maeda and became his student. Under Maeda’s guidance, Carlos learned the principles of Judo and adapted them to suit his own style and body type. Carlos, along with his brothers, began teaching Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil, eventually establishing the Gracie Academy in Rio de Janeiro.
Helio Gracie: Helio Gracie, one of Carlos’ younger brothers, played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Due to his smaller stature and physical limitations, Helio focused on refining the techniques to rely more on leverage, timing, and efficiency rather than brute strength. This approach allowed him to overcome larger opponents and became the foundation of what is now known as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Carlos Gracie Jr.: Carlos Gracie Jr., the son of Helio Gracie, continued the family legacy and dedicated his life to spreading Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. He founded the Gracie Barra Academy, which has become one of the largest and most influential Jiu-Jitsu organizations in the world. Carlos Gracie Jr. has played a pivotal role in popularizing the art, establishing standardized training methods, and promoting the values of discipline, respect, and personal growth.
Rigan Machado: Rigan Machado, a cousin of the Gracie family, has made significant contributions to the art of Jiu-Jitsu. As a highly accomplished practitioner and instructor, Machado has trained numerous world-class athletes and has been instrumental in expanding Jiu-Jitsu’s global reach.
Jason Brinn: Jason Brinn, the head instructor of Good Fight Way, carries on the legacy of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and its values of self-defense, personal development, and community engagement. With extensive experience and expertise in Jiu-Jitsu, Brinn continues to empower individuals through expertly guided programs, both online and in-person, at Good Fight Way. His leadership and dedication further the mission of Good Fight Way to help kids, women, and men live healthier, safer, and longer lives.
In September of 2022, Jason Brinn became a Certified Instructor under Master Rigan Machado and Good Fight became an Official School in the Rigan Machado Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association.
The Rigan Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association is a renowned and respected organization within the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Named after the legendary Rigan Machado, a highly accomplished Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, the association represents a legacy of excellence and dedication to the art. With a strong emphasis on technical proficiency, personal growth, and community building, the Rigan Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association offers a platform for practitioners to develop their skills and deepen their understanding of the art.
Led by Rigan Machado himself, the association upholds the values of respect, discipline, and integrity, providing a nurturing environment for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to thrive in their Jiu-Jitsu journey. The Rigan Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association offers an opportunity to learn from the best and be part of a global community that shares a passion for the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Through the contributions and dedication of these remarkable individuals, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon, transforming the lives of countless practitioners and spreading the art’s principles far and wide. The legacy of Jigoro Kano, Mitsuyo Maeda, Carlos Gracie, Helio Gracie, Carlos Gracie Jr., Rigan Machado, and Jason Brinn continues to inspire and shape the practice of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu today.
