What is the difference between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu?

Some people will say that Jiu-Jitsu is Jiu-Jitsu. That an Americana is an Americana, a Kimura is a Kimura. Some others will say that GJJ and BJJ are completely different.

The question and answer sequence Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instructor were told to memorize, drill and say during introduction lessons at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy’s instructors training program from 1998 to 2000:

What is the difference between Gracie Jiu-Jitsu versus Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? The Armlocks, Chokes and moves of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) are the same as Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. The difference is the teaching method. Here at the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy in Torrance, California we strictly endorse the teaching methods of Grand Master Helio Gracie. He believes that there is no such thing as a good or bad student: only good teachers and bad teachers.

Rener Gracie was on the BJJ Hour Podcast last night and answered many questions from fans.

When asked to explain exactly what differentiates Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Rener Gracie stated:

If you are not training Jiu-Jitsu (grappling) using strikes then you are not doing Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. BJJ with strikes isn’t MMA, it’s Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

Here he explains in detail his reasoning:

In the majority of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies around the world, they will teach you the sport aspect of Jiu-Jitsu. This means no strikes, and little self defense, but more focus on the modern sweeps, guard passes etc..

We all watch MMA and have seen Jiu-Jitsu in an MMA fight (think of the first UFC’s), but what does a Jiu-Jitsu sparring session look like when you add strikes to the equation?

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