The History of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) traces its roots to the Gracie Family, who learned from Mitsuyo Maeda, a student of Judo’s founder Jigoro Kano. Maeda, a top Judo expert, traveled the world spreading Judo, arriving in Brazil in 1914. There, he taught Judo to Gastão Gracie, who introduced the art to his son, Carlos Gracie.
Carlos and his brothers adapted Judo, refining techniques and eliminating the ineffective ones. The youngest brother, Helio, unable to train in Judo due to his frailty, developed a softer, more leverage-based approach—now known as Gracie Jiu-Jitsu—enabling smaller practitioners to defeat larger opponents.
This system, focusing on ground fighting, evolved into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which is now regarded as one of the most effective forms of unarmed combat. The Gracie family’s dominance in MMA showcases its ongoing effectiveness.
Where does myBJJ fit in?
Founded by Professor Mario Sergio Yokoyama, who received his black belt under Ryan Gracie (Carlos Gracie’s grandson), myBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu Team continues to promote and preserve the art of BJJ through its International Team.
Our Mission
At myBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we aim to promote the global growth and participation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We are committed to maintaining the integrity and traditions of BJJ, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the art. As we evolve, we strive to adapt BJJ to meet the needs of modern practitioners, both in self-defense and in sport.
Our mission also includes contributing to the community by using BJJ as a platform to teach discipline, respect, and family values. We seek to build a global network of instructors and students who actively contribute to the growth of myBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
We are dedicated to delivering world-class teaching programs that develop not only champion athletes but also exceptional instructors. Through this, we aim to lead the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community by setting the highest standards in technique, instruction, and competition success.
Association
From humble beginnings in Professor Mario Sergio Yokoyama’s backyard in 2007, myBJJ has grown into an internationally recognized team. Headquartered in Sydney, Australia, with affiliated clubs in Japan, New Zealand, Korea, and Brazil, we are committed to delivering world-class tuition and fostering student growth in both self-defense and competition.
Our competition team has made significant impacts on the Australian and international BJJ scene, with champions in World, Pan American, Pan Pacific, Australian, and Brazilian Championships.
Whether you’re running a BJJ academy or introducing BJJ to your existing gym, myBJJ International Association offers curriculum development, world-class instructor training, and a business network to benefit both academy owners and students.
Join us today and become part of our growing family!