The Rise and Fall of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: From Glory to Cultism Pt. 1

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The Rise and Fall of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: From Glory to Cultism

By C.G Mcfadden

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) exploded into the global martial arts scene with a bang. Brought into prominence by the Gracie family and validated through early MMA events like the UFC, BJJ quickly became a symbol of efficient self-defense and ground control. But behind the sweaty mats and tournament medals lies a complex story filled with politics, ego, fractured history, and growing disillusionment among practitioners.

Today, BJJ is at a crossroads. Its rise is undeniable, but its current state raises uncomfortable questions. This blog examines not just BJJ's evolution and accomplishments, but also its glaring inconsistencies, the politics that stifle progress, the cult-like culture that’s formed, and the growing number of practitioners walking away—some dramatically.

A Fractured Origin: No Consensus, No Unity

One of BJJ’s most persistent issues is its lack of a consistent history. While the Gracie family often receives credit for developing the art, even within the Gracie lineage there’s infighting about how it evolved, who deserves credit, and what the "real" BJJ even is. No unified historical narrative exists—just competing origin stories that differ from camp to camp.

Even today, there's no agreement on testing or promotion standards. Each gym essentially operates like an independent fiefdom, with belts awarded at the instructor’s discretion. The only consistent theme across schools? A connection to the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF)—but even this body operates more as a corporate gatekeeper than a regulating authority.

The Belt Mirage: Promotion Without Merit

The belt system in BJJ is supposedly one of the most rigorous in martial arts, often requiring 10-12 years to earn a black belt. Yet, there is no unified test. No formalized curriculum. No single body that enforces standards. Most promotions are based entirely on when an instructor "feels" a student is ready.

This subjectivity opens the floodgates for bias, favoritism, and financial incentives. As Reddit user BJJDisillusioned put it:

“They count how many times you come to practice. It’s all scheduled. They tell you when you’re gonna get your permanent belt.”

Belts are used as both retention tools and marketing gimmicks. Some instructors have been accused of promoting students just to keep them from quitting or to attract new sign-ups.

The IBJJF Money Machine

The IBJJF is often viewed as a necessary evil. To compete in many tournaments, you need to be a registered member. This means annual fees, expensive tournament registrations, and belt certification costs.

Critics argue the IBJJF is less a governing body and more a cash cow. Sam Gaier, a viral BJJ critic, once remarked:

"IBJJF’s biggest contribution is helping Brazilians get U.S. green cards—not advancing the art."

Jeff Glover, a respected competitor, also criticized the system:

“We’re giving black belts to 50-year-old women who would get destroyed by a teenager with zero grappling skills… What a joke it’s become.”

The belt has become a commodity—purchased with time, fees, and loyalty—not necessarily earned through skill.

Cultism and Hero Worship

Over the years, BJJ has morphed into a cult of personality. Many students follow their instructors with blind loyalty, often avoiding cross-training or questioning dogma. Some of the most respected instructors never competed at a high level, yet are revered as demi-gods in their gyms.

This has created insular communities where questioning the system—or leaving it—is seen as betrayal. The refusal of major organizations like the IBJJF, ADCC, and EBI to collaborate is further proof of how fragmented and tribal the art has become.

Burning the Belt: When Practitioners Walk Away

The disillusionment has become so real that some practitioners have not just quit—but burned their belts in protest. Here are five notable cases:

1. Evandro Nunes

Once a respected instructor at Gracie University, Nunes publicly denounced Rener and Ryron Gracie. He called them out for prioritizing profit over people and literally burned his black belt to protest what he saw as corruption within the BJJ establishment. (Source: Tap Nap and Snap)

2. Dan Henderson (alias, BJJTribes)

After years of devotion, Henderson wrote a "love letter" to BJJ, saying goodbye to the art after realizing it no longer brought him joy. He cited burnout, evolving life priorities, and disillusionment with BJJ’s culture. (Source: BJJTribes)

3. Sgt._Slaphead (forum user)

A black belt who left due to what he called “pajama drama,” rigid social hierarchies, and increasing nonsense in the sport. (Source: MMA Forums)

4. Pierced7681 (Sherdog user)

A blue belt with seven years of training, he quit due to injuries, gym politics, and disillusionment with overly stylized techniques like berimbolo and worm guard. (Source: Sherdog Forums)

5. Multiple Mid-Rank Practitioners (NeoGAF post)

One user described multiple purple and brown belts leaving simultaneously—citing family, careers, and a loss of love for the art. Their exits were quiet, but deeply felt. (Source: NeoGAF)

6. The Good in the Middle of the Chaos

Despite all the politics, BJJ can still be incredibly positive when practiced in the right environment. It builds discipline, fosters problem-solving, and offers community. The key is to find a school that fits your values—not just your goals.

Pros:

  • Live sparring (“rolling”) offers unmatched realism

  • Deep technical depth and adaptability

  • Personal growth and community

Cons:

  • Inconsistent belt standards

  • High costs for tournaments and affiliation

  • Potential for toxic gym culture and politics

So What Is The Future of BJJ?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began with the promise of realistic self-defense and self-discovery. But today, that promise is too often clouded by egos, gatekeeping, and profit motives. Belts can be bought, organizations refuse to collaborate, and talented practitioners are walking away disillusioned.

Yet, not all is lost. If you’re new to BJJ—or disillusioned by it—remember this: BJJ is just a tool. It’s only as good as the people and the culture surrounding it. Seek out authenticity. Ask questions. Find a school that nurtures rather than dictates.

Because beneath all the politics, belt ceremonies, and cult-like hero worship, the art itself—the flow, the problem-solving, the growth—is still there.

But only if you’re willing to dig through the noise to find it.


Contact Information:

casper.mcfadden@mail.com

Sources:


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