Wrestling For Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

“I had already had 8 years of wrestling experience,” Justin shared when discussing his entry into the world of BJJ.  Training with the iconic Rafael Lovato Sr & Jr since the infant stages of his BJJ career, Rader has certainly been surrounded by the best since the onset.

A noted wrestler in his youth, Rader began training the powerful art under the tutelage of the father of UFC star, Johnny Hendricks.  Learning what it takes to succeed in wrestling, Rader would soon transition into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, something that wasn’t as easy as some would expect.

“I didn’t want to wear this thing,” Rader jokingly remarked when remembering the early days of working in the Gi.  Not a fan of being able to be choked by your own apparel, Justin soon gravitated towards the No Gi side, and would thrive instantly.

“Wrestling was always a part of my game,” Justin proclaimed.  Knowing that wrestler’s can easily be typcasted in the grappling world, it was Rafael Lovato Jr who encouraged him to continue working his game, and not get distracted by the peanut gallery.

Taking that advice to heart, and relying on his wrestling, Justin would go on to develop one of the best top games in the game! You can check out some of our interview in the video below.

Photo: Kinya Hashimoto

Making BJJ A Lifestyle

One thing that separates the “good” from the “great” is the willingness to learn and commit to the sport.  This was exactly what Justin did once he began hitting his stride.

“I was going to make mistakes,” Justin shamelessly admits.  “They [Lovato’s] let it play its course.  I was going to ask questions, I was going to analyze it myself,” Rader continues, “and if I couldn’t, Professor Rafael was right there to help.”

Being able to accept his humble white belt beginnings and opening himself to learning from his mistakes has allowed Justin to stay on top for a while.

“I’ve been meshing wrestling and Jiu Jitsu for 15 years now.”

Check out Justin’s interview: