Join us for an in-depth interview with Rick Williams—one of the original “Dirty Dozen” American black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, retired police officer, and executive protection specialist for NBA legends like Kobe Bryant. In this episode, Rick shares powerful stories from his decades-long career, including:

• How Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu saved lives on the police force
• Behind-the-scenes insights from protecting NBA superstars
• The evolution of BJJ from street self-defense to modern sport
• The intense rivalries and loyalty of early American BJJ
• Life lessons and advice for finding your passion

Whether you’re a martial artist, law enforcement professional, or just love a good story, you’ll find inspiration and wisdom in Rick’s journey. Discover what it takes to thrive in high-pressure environments, adapt to change, and build a life around passion and service.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: Rick Williams’ Martial Arts Journey
01:00 – Law Enforcement Career: 28 Years on the Force
03:00 – The BJJ Dirty Dozen & Early Black Belts
05:00 – Executive Protection for NBA Stars
07:00 – Getting Started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
10:00 – Training with the Gracies and Machados
13:00 – Rivalries and Early Tournaments
16:00 – Balancing Police Work, Jiu-Jitsu, and Wrestling
20:00 – The Value of BJJ in Law Enforcement
25:00 – Realities of Policing: Risks, Training, and Survival
30:00 – Weapon Retention & Specialized Police Jiu-Jitsu
35:00 – Transition to Executive Protection: Life with NBA Clients
40:00 – Lessons from Elite Athletes & Maintaining Fitness
45:00 – The Evolution of BJJ: Sport vs. Self-Defense
50:00 – Advice for the Next Generation & Closing Thoughts

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, edited by Phil Marriott and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews and insights from the world of martial arts, law enforcement, and personal development!

Links mentioned in the show

Royce Gracie
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royce_Gracie

Machado Brothers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Machado_family

Rigan Machado
https://www.theacademybeverlyhills.com/instructors/rigan-machado/

Rico Chiapparelli
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rico_Chiapparelli

Dan Henderson
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Henderson

Krav Maga
https://www.kravmaga.com/

CJI
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Jones_Invitational

Music by Robel Borja
“Disambiguation” https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A
“Erotic Spring” https://open.spotify.com/track/20RAs5iOvZGYSxQTjx8AAM?si=a0a5cead10e0441b

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.