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Name: Keenan Kai-James Cornelius
Current Rank: Black Belt under André Galvão
Notable Achievements:
1st Place IBJJF European Open (2018, 2020)
1st Place IBJJF Pan Championship (2014, 2015, 2018)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship No-Gi (2014)
1st Place IBJJF Asian Open (2018)
1st Place IBJJF Pro League (2014)
1st Place FIVE Grappling Grand Prix (2013)
2nd Place ADCC World Championship (2017)
3rd Place ADCC World Championship (2013)
3rd Place IBJJF World Championship (2018)
Lineage: Carlos Gracie --> Reyson Gracie --> Osvaldo Alves --> Luis Dagmar --> André Galvão --> Keenan Cornelius
Keenan Cornelius is a Hawaii-born BJJ athlete known for his innovation and technical mastery. He gained worldwide recognition early in his career by conquering the "Jiu-Jitsu Grand Slam" in the lower belt divisions. Keenan is also known for his unique guard variations like the Worm Guard. He left André Galvão's Atos team to open his own affiliation, Legion, in 2019.
Biography
Biography
Early Life
Early Life
Born on February 25, 1992, in Hawaii, Keenan Cornelius was introduced to martial arts at a young age by his father, Tom Callos, a 6th-degree Tae Kwon Do black belt. However, it wasn't until he was 14 that he found his true calling—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His father, a blue belt at the time, opened a small gym where Keenan and his friends could train.
Formative Years in Jiu-Jitsu
Formative Years in Jiu-Jitsu
Keenan's initial training was sporadic, but his talent was evident. He trained at Cassio Werneck's gym and later at BJ Penn's academy in Hilo. However, it was at Lloyd Irvin's academy where Keenan's raw talent transformed into something extraordinary. He won all major competitions at the purple and brown belt levels, earning him the title of the Most Accomplished Brown Belt of All Time.
Ascension to Prominence
Ascension to Prominence
Keenan's rise to fame was meteoric. After leaving Lloyd Irvin's academy amid controversy, he joined André Galvão's Atos team and received his black belt in September 2013. His grappling record boasts 183 wins, with 113 by submission. He later left Atos to open his own gym, Legion Jiu-Jitsu, in San Diego.
Achievements and Titles
Achievements and Titles
1st Place IBJJF European Open (2018, 2020)
1st Place IBJJF Pan Championship (2018, 2015, 2014)
2nd Place ADCC World Championship (2017)
1st Place IBJJF World Championship No-Gi (2014)
Personal Philosophy and Style
Personal Philosophy and Style
Keenan is known for his innovative techniques, including the Spider Guard, De La Riva Guard, and Worm Guard. He competes in the Peso Pesado weight division (94.30 kg / 208.0 lbs).
Current Endeavors and Legacy
Current Endeavors and Legacy
Keenan Cornelius continues to be a leading figure in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, both as a competitor and as an instructor at his gym, Legion. His influence extends beyond the mat, as he's seen as a symbol of the sport's evolution.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Keenan Cornelius is a name that will forever be associated with innovation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His journey from a young talent to an influential black belt is a testament to his dedication, skill, and love for the sport. And he's far from done.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Keenan Cornelius
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Keenan Cornelius
General Information
General Information
Q: Who is Keenan Cornelius?
A: Keenan Cornelius is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a well-known competitor in both gi and no-gi formats. He has gained fame for his innovative techniques and high-level grappling skills.
Career and Achievements
Career and Achievements
Q: What are some of Keenan Cornelius's notable achievements in BJJ?
A: Keenan Cornelius has won multiple titles in prestigious BJJ tournaments, including the IBJJF World Championships, Pan American Championships, and ADCC trials.
Techniques and Style
Techniques and Style
Q: What is Keenan Cornelius known for in terms of BJJ techniques?
A: Keenan is known for his technical prowess and has contributed several innovative techniques to the sport, including various lapel guards.
Training and Academy
Training and Academy
Q: Where is Keenan Cornelius's gym located?
A: Keenan Cornelius runs his own BJJ academy, which attracts students from around the world.
Q: Does Keenan Cornelius offer online training?
A: Yes, Keenan Cornelius offers online training courses through his platform, Keenan Cornelius Online, where he shares his techniques and strategies.
Gi and No-Gi
Gi and No-Gi
Q: Does Keenan Cornelius compete in both gi and no-gi?
A: Yes, Keenan Cornelius is proficient in both gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu and has won titles in both formats.
Q: What brand of gi does Keenan Cornelius prefer?
A: Keenan Cornelius has been seen wearing various brands of gis, but it's best to check his latest social media updates for current preferences.
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
Q: How can I stay updated on Keenan Cornelius's activities?
A: Keenan Cornelius is active on social media, where he regularly posts updates about his training, competitions, and other BJJ-related content.
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