In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, etiquette and tradition hold a unique place. However, recent criticism from BJJ black belt Kenan Cornelius has sparked a heated conversation on whether some academies, particularly large affiliations like Gracie Barra, are taking these traditions too far. A viral video clip of Cornelius has reignited the debate, with him calling out what he sees as “cult-like” rules in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools that restrict the independence and autonomy of their students.
On the I suck at Jiu-Jitsu podcast, Cornelius explains his stance, saying:
“I get that rules can bring structure to training, but some of these academies treat their students like soldiers, not like individuals there to learn. It’s about control—not respect. When you have to ask permission to leave the mat, you’re enforcing loyalty to the academy over the actual spirit of Jiu-Jitsu.”
Keenan Cornelius’ Standpoint: A Push for Authenticity in Jiu-Jitsu
For Cornelius, the heart of the issue lies in the way BJJ academies shape student behavior and loyalty. He argued that enforcing these rules can create an insular culture, fostering obedience over individual expression and critical thinking in martial arts.
“BJJ should be about pushing yourself and respecting others because you want to—not because you’re forced to. There’s a difference between discipline that aids learning and discipline that stifles independence.”
The Brazilian run Gracie Barra, one of the world’s most prominent BJJ affiliations, has recently come under scrutiny for their strict policies on belt etiquette and behavior on the mat. Known for their emphasis on discipline and structure, Gracie Barra schools encourage students to follow certain protocols that, according to some, border on authoritarian.
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Gracie Barra’s Response: “Respect Both On and Off the Mat”
In response to the criticism, Gracie Barra Fulham released a statement on social media, underlining that their approach to BJJ training is rooted in respect:
“Mastering the art of BJJ starts with respect both on and off the mat. Whether you’re a white belt or a seasoned practitioner, following proper etiquette is essential for a safe and positive training environment.”
Gracie Barra went on to detail their rules for maintaining etiquette, including:
- Sanitizing your feet before stepping onto the mats to ensure cleanliness.
- Sitting cross-legged and upright when resting to demonstrate respect and attentiveness.
- Bowing upon entering and exiting the mat as a gesture of respect.
- Wearing shoes when off the mat to keep the mats clean.
- Facing away from the instructor when tying your belt as a sign of humility.
- Prohibiting drinks on the mat to uphold hygiene standards.
The reaction to these guidelines has been divided, with some practitioners defending the rules as a way to instill discipline and respect, while others see them as excessive.
Mixed Reactions from the BJJ Community
Many BJJ enthusiasts quickly took to social media to voice their thoughts. For some, the rules are perceived as needlessly restrictive, an obstacle to the sport’s progression.
One practitioner remarked:
“Are you asking permission to leave and come on the mats? No, I’m good, thanks.”
Another added:
“Y’all treat your students like they’re in 3rd grade, asking permission to walk off the mat lol. We get treated like adults at my academy, and I like it that way.”
Even more vocal were critics of the bowing protocol. One commenter posted:
“Bowing at a mat? Nah, I’m good 😭. Too much needless power-tripping with arbitrary rules.”
Some students saw merit in hygiene rules, such as sanitizing before stepping onto the mat, but found the rest of the etiquette excessive. As one practitioner summarized:
“This is why Gracie Barra is a joke to most people. Do you let your students train at other academies?”
The Larger Debate: Respect, Tradition, or Control?
The BJJ community has long been divided over the role of traditional etiquette. While some believe rules are vital for instilling discipline and respect, others see them as outdated structures, a means of control rather than culture. As BJJ becomes more mainstream, the clash between tradition and modernity only intensifies.
For now, Gracie Barra and other traditional academies stand by their rules as essential to maintaining respect and safety on the mat. Yet, as Cornelius’ criticism and the subsequent backlash highlight, there’s a growing call for greater flexibility and a focus on authenticity over rigid control in BJJ academies.
The question remains: Will Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continue with its stringent traditions, or will it adapt to the evolving values of its diverse and global practitioners? As Cornelius noted:
“In the end, Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just a sport. It’s a lifestyle—one that shouldn’t require blind obedience to thrive.”
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.
