In a recent conversation on the “Connect Cast” podcast, Carlson Gracie Jr. – son of the legendary Carlson Gracie – shared an intriguing insight into his father’s view of the toughest Gracie family member.
Carlson Gracie Jr. expressed his agreement with his father’s assessment, stating:
Uncle Helio (Gracie) was tough as nails, he was the real deal. He never backed down from anything.
Someone who mirrored Uncle Helio’s spirit was Royler (Gracie). He took on everyone.
My father used to say he was the toughest: “This guy is the real deal, he doesn’t run from anyone.”
He explained that his father “said it as it is”:
My father was impartial. It didn’t matter if they were his students or not, he respected those who deserved it.
He was always fair, never diminishing anyone’s worth.And I agree with my father, he never ran from anyone, I can attest to that.
He has his own personality, his own way of life, but he is tough.
Royler Gracie, now 58 years old and a son of Helio Gracie, has won four IBJJF World Championships (1996, 1997, 1998, and 1999) and three ADCC titles in the under 66kg category (1999, 2000, and 2001).
His contribution to the sport was further recognized with his induction into the “Hall of Fame” in 2022.
