Relson Gracie

Name: Relson Gracie

Current Rank: Red Belt (9th degree) under Helio Gracie

Notable Achievements:

• Pioneer of the sport in Hawaii

• First Gracie representative to embrace surfing

• Numerous gold medals in local jiu-jitsu tournaments

Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda --> Carlos Gracie --> Helio Gracie --> Relson Gracie

Relson Gracie, the second oldest son of the late Grand Master Helio Gracie, is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu red belt (9th degree) who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for pioneering BJJ in Hawaii and being the first Gracie to truly embrace surfing, Relson is a unique figure in the Gracie family and the world of martial arts.

Early Life

Born on March 28, 1953, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Relson Gracie was introduced to jiu-jitsu at a tender age. Despite his early exposure to the martial art, he was more interested in playing football on the beach and surfing. His academic performance was lackluster, prompting his father, Helio Gracie, to steer him towards jiu-jitsu as a potential career. To incentivize him, Helio offered him $100 for every gold medal he won in competitions.

Formative Years in Jiu-Jitsu

Relson's formative years were a blend of wild adventures and intense training. He was known for his rebellious nature and reportedly had over 100 street fights, all of which he claims to have won. His only defeat came at the hands of his cousin, Rolls Gracie, during a family argument. Despite this, the two later reconciled and became close friends.

Ascension to Prominence

Relson's competitive spirit was fueled by the incentives from his father, leading him to win several gold medals in local tournaments. However, unlike his brothers and cousins, he had to wait seven long years at the brown belt level before receiving his black belt from his father. In 1975, he founded one of the most famous Gracie Jiu-Jitsu affiliate schools, "Gracie Ilha," in Brazil.

The Hawaiian Chapter

In 1988, Relson moved to Honolulu, Hawaii, to spread the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His academy grew rapidly, thanks to the warrior spirit of the Hawaiians. In 1992, he organized the first official BJJ tournament outside Brazil. Over time, Relson shifted the focus of his academies more towards self-defense, although he did not entirely discourage competition.

Legacy

Relson Gracie is not just another member of the Gracie family; he is a pioneer who took Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to new shores. His influence in Hawaii and his unique approach to the sport and lifestyle have made him a revered figure in the BJJ community. Whether it's his love for surfing or his emphasis on self-defense, Relson Gracie has shown that the martial art is as versatile as the individuals who practice it.