Robert Drysdale On The Real History of BJJ, Carlson Gracie & BJJ’s Biggest Myths | Between Rounds 28

ADCC champion, BJJ world champion, coach, author, and historian Robert Drysdale joins John Crouch for Episode 28 of Between Rounds. Drysdale takes a deep dive into the history of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and challenges some of the stories that have been repeated for generations. He explains why he believes modern BJJ is much younger than most people think, how a 1975 rule set helped create the ground focused sport we recognize today, and why Carlson Gracie may be the most important and underappreciated figure in the development of modern Jiu Jitsu. Robert also breaks down the roles of Helio, Rorion, Royce, Rickson, Maeda, and other legendary figures, discusses the relationship between Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and shares stories of forgotten Vale Tudo pioneers like Euclydes Pereira, Ivan Gomes, and Waldemar Santana. He also explains why researching the history has forced him to question long accepted narratives and why he believes you cannot simply trust what you read online. The conversation eventually turns to Robert’s own career as an elite competitor and MMA fighter, the intense fear he experienced before competing, what he learned from training and coaching in Las Vegas, and why trust, loyalty, and team culture can matter more than having the most talented individuals in the room. 👊 *Topics include:* • The real origins of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu • Why Robert believes modern BJJ took shape in 1975 • Carlson Gracie’s overlooked impact on Jiu Jitsu • Helio Gracie and the myths surrounding his story • How Rorion Gracie and Royce Gracie changed martial arts forever • Royce Gracie vs. Rickson Gracie’s competitive legacies • BJJ’s connection to Judo and Mitsuyo Maeda • Forgotten Vale Tudo legends like Euclydes Pereira and Ivan Gomes • Why Robert questions accepted Jiu Jitsu history • Social media, AI, and misinformation • Robert’s fear and anxiety before competition • His ADCC and MMA career • Why great fighters need coaches they truly trust • The importance of culture and loyalty inside a fight team • Robert’s philosophy on coaching and developing athletes Subscribe to Between Rounds for more conversations with the fighters, coaches, and personalities who have shaped combat sports. #RobertDrysdale #BJJ #BrazilianJiuJitsu #JiuJitsu #CarlsonGracie #GracieJiuJitsu #ADCC #MMA #UFC #ValeTudo #BetweenRounds