448 - The Forgotten Jiu-Jitsu Practitioner Who Taught Maeda (and Ultimately the Gracies) Groundfighting

Most people know that BJJ descended from Kodokan Judo which came from traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu systems. But the Kodokan was initially quite weak at the groundfighting aspect of grappling, and it wasn't until it brushed up against other systems specialising in ne-waza or groundwork that it became a well-rounded art.  In this episode we are joined by Martial Arts historian (and BJJ practitioner) Oz Austwick who has researched this cross-pollination extensively.

Oz's research focussed on Sadakazu Uyenishi who was among the first to bring jiu-jitsu to Britain, where he performed under the name "Raku". Uyenishi fought all comers, including much larger wrestlers, and toured with Mitsuyo Maeda from the Kodokan BEFORE moving to Brazil and triggering the creation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.  Oz argues that Uyenishi was almost certainly a huge hidden influence in the creation of BJJ.

Check out the limited edition "Raku" gi honoring this extraordinary jiu-jitsu fighter!  More info here: https://rikuzame.com/products/the-raku-limited-edition

Cheers!

Stephan Kesting