John Will
The Australian Pioneer of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Name: John Will
Current Rank: Black Belt under Jean Jacques Machado / Rigan Machado
Notable Achievements:
Pioneer in the Australasia region for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Founder and editor of "Blitz," a martial arts magazine
First non-Indonesian to win the World Silat Championship in Jakarta (1982)
Awarded black belts to notable Australian competitors such as George Sotiropoulos, Elvis Sinosic, and Anthony Perosh
Part of the "Dirty Dozen," the first 12 non-Brazilians to receive a black belt in BJJ
Lineage: Carlos Gracie --> Helio Gracie --> Carlos Gracie Junior --> Jean Jacques Machado / Rigan Machado --> John Will
John Will is one of Australia's most prestigious Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belts and a pioneer in the Australasia region. He was also the founder and editor of "Blitz," a magazine fully dedicated to martial arts, and is part of the "Dirty Dozen," the first 12 non-Brazilians to receive a black belt in BJJ.
Introduction
John Will is a name that resonates deeply within the Australian Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community. A black belt under Rigan and Jean Jacques Machado, he is part of the illustrious "Dirty Dozen"—the first 12 non-Brazilians to earn a black belt in BJJ. John Will has not only been a trailblazer in Australasia but has also mentored some of Australia's most notable black belts, such as George Sotiropoulos, Elvis Sinosic, and Anthony Perosh.
Early Life
Born on April 16, 1957, in Geelong, Victoria, Australia, John Will's introduction to martial arts came as a response to being bullied in school. His father was a law enforcer, but it was the wrestling club at his local church that first exposed him to combat sports. At the age of 15, he delved into Tae Kwon Do, a Korean martial art focused on kicking techniques.
Journey into Martial Arts
John's passion for martial arts led him to leave Australia at 18 to study Pentjak Silat, an Indonesian martial art. In 1982, he became the first non-Indonesian to win the World Silat Championship in Jakarta. His journey didn't stop there; in the late 1980s, he founded and edited "Blitz," a magazine dedicated to martial arts. This venture allowed him to travel globally, researching various fighting styles and meeting legends like Gene LeBell, Rickson Gracie, and the Machado Brothers.
The Grappling Chapter
John Will's foray into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was no less than spectacular. Through his magazine, he had the opportunity to meet and train with some of the sport's legends. He traveled to Brazil to seek the best instructors and was eventually awarded his black belt in 1998 by Rigan and Jean Jacques Machado.
Legacy and Influence
John Will has been instrumental in shaping the Australian BJJ scene. He has awarded black belts to some of the continent's most recognizable competitors and continues to be a guiding force for the newer generations. His association, Will-Machado BJJ, is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his students.
Conclusion
John Will's life is a compelling narrative of overcoming adversity, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and the unquenchable thirst to elevate the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Australia. As he continues to contribute to the sport, his legacy is far from complete, and the martial arts world eagerly awaits what he will do next.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about John Will
General Information
Q: Who is John Will in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
A: John Will is a highly respected and influential figure in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) community. He is known for his expertise, contributions, and promotion of BJJ.
Q: What is John Will's background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
A: John Will is a BJJ black belt with extensive experience in martial arts. He is recognized for his significant contributions to the development and spread of BJJ in Australia and beyond.
Q: Is John Will a well-known BJJ instructor?
A: Yes, John Will is a renowned BJJ instructor who has taught and influenced many practitioners and instructors in the BJJ community.
Contributions and Impact
Q: What are some of John Will's contributions to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
A: John Will has made significant contributions to the development and promotion of BJJ. He is known for his teaching, writing, and efforts to spread the art internationally.
Q: How has John Will impacted the BJJ community?
A: John Will's impact on the BJJ community is substantial. He has played a key role in introducing and popularizing BJJ in Australia and has authored books and instructional materials that have benefited practitioners worldwide.
Q: Can you recommend any books or instructional materials by John Will?
A: Yes, John Will has authored several books and instructional materials on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. These resources provide valuable insights and techniques for BJJ practitioners.
Training and Lineage
Q: Who are some of John Will's notable BJJ instructors or mentors?
A: John Will has trained under and learned from various BJJ pioneers and instructors, contributing to his wealth of knowledge in the art.
Q: Does John Will have a specific BJJ lineage or affiliation?
A: John Will may be affiliated with specific BJJ organizations or lineages. It's advisable to check his official website or social media profiles for the most up-to-date information.
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