The global Jiu-Jitsu community is mourning the loss of Richard Bresler, one of the sport’s earliest American pioneers and a coral belt holder.
Widely recognized as the first student of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the United States, Bresler’s legacy stretches across decades and has had a profound influence on the development of the art outside of Brazil.
Bresler’s journey in Jiu-Jitsu began under Rorion Gracie, shortly after Gracie arrived in Los Angeles and started teaching in the early days of the art’s introduction to America.
While many students came and went, Bresler remained committed – eventually earning his black belt in 1998, at a time when few black belts existed outside Brazil.
But Bresler’s contributions went far beyond the mats.
In the early years of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu’s arrival in the U.S., Bresler was one of the few people who believed in the art enough to invest in it.
He reportedly helped fund the launch of the original Gracie Academy and even lived with Rorion Gracie in Hermosa Beach.
He later became one of the investors in the very first UFC event in 1993 – a groundbreaking moment that would forever change combat sports and thrust Jiu-Jitsu into the global spotlight.
Thanks to Bresler’s dedication, sacrifice, and belief in the art, countless others were able to discover Jiu-Jitsu and begin their own journey. His influence on the sport in America is immeasurable.
Just a few months ago, Rener and Ryron Gracie awarded Bresler his coral belt – an emotional moment that reflected more than 40 years of commitment to Jiu-Jitsu.
The promotion took place under difficult circumstances, as Bresler was hospitalized at the time while battling Stage 3 Cirrhosis of the Liver.
Rener Gracie shared the news on his official Instagram account, honoring the man who helped lay the foundation for what Jiu-Jitsu in America has become today:
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