Pat Hardy Talks Early Jiu-Jitsu, Royce Gracie, and Texas Punishment Crew | Between Rounds #30

Between Rounds is brought to you by GRAASI. Use code BETWEENROUNDS for 15% off your order at graasi.com. On this episode of Between Rounds, John sits down with martial arts legend Pat Hardy—the first-ever Royce Gracie black belt, Vietnam veteran, former kickboxing champion, and criminal investigator. Pat shares incredible stories from his early days learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, including watching the original Gracie in Action tapes featuring Rickson Gracie and Zulu, and traveling to the Gracie Academy in Torrance. He breaks down his close friendship with Royce Gracie—including a wild story about getting stopped by game wardens in Texas—and reflects on the major differences between modern tournament BJJ and traditional Helio Gracie self-defense. The conversation also covers Pat's long career in law enforcement and martial arts, from winning the 1997 mainland national championship to building a 33-year legacy with his school, Texas Punishment Crew, alongside the Ebarb family. Pat also opens up about his tough childhood, the life lessons that shaped his coaching philosophy, and his experiences training with early BJJ figures like Steve Maxwell, Phil Migliarese, and John Burke.