What was Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu like 20 or 30 years ago? According to Dean Lister, it was a completely different world.
One that demanded more toughness, more travel, and a willingness to deal with the unknown.
Here is what he had to say about the topic in an interview with BJJEE:
Back then, it was „tougher“ in general.
Each time has its good and bad things… But, back then, you never knew who you were fighting.Another thing is that I had to drive all over the country in order to train with quality.
I know that, even today, there are some people who also travel to train. But, back then, you absolutely HAD to do so.
The rules and culture were also harsher:
When I first started, people could do neck cranks. You could slam people.
More things broke than today. I am not saying this is good – as a matter of fact, it is not.
At the same time, he believes there may have been a stronger sense of loyalty and respect among athletes:
There might have been a generally higher degree of respect between fighters and athletes.
People didn’t jump from team to team (sometimes they did, but that was rare); but because of this, most grapplers trained in one style only as well.
Still, Lister doesn’t romanticize the past.
In many ways, he sees modern Jiu-Jitsu as a clear improvement:
I think that the athletes are better today because so many of them are a part of the sport.
Also, the techniques are much more developed now as well, and the sport is more organized.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
