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

Chris is a BJJ and Luta Livre black belt teaching in the UK and has many radical ideas about teaching and training BJJ which could change the sport for the better! In this episode we covered...

- Training takedowns and dangerous submissions safely
- A radical re-imagining of the BJJ belt system
- Encouraging exploration in jiu-jitsu
- The limits imposed by strength and power in grappling
- And so much more.

Check out Chris's personal Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/chrisvillainbjj/ and/or his school at https://www.instagram.com/fightingfitgrapplingbjj/

Shiggi loves BJJ and thinks that it can build and change communities in Africa, and is on a mission to open a community dojo in Kenya aimed at empowering girls aged 12 to 18.

Shiggi is a BJJ practitioner with a background in Shotokan karate, Taekwondo, Capoeira, and working the door as a bouncer in UK night clubs. Her ambitious goal is to establish a community dojo in Kenya that not only teaches Jiu-Jitsu but also provides a safe space for girls to learn self-defense and life skills to counteract some of the societal issues affecting young girls in Africa, such as child marriages, domestic violence, and lack of educational opportunities.

The community dojo will be situated in Kenya and serve as a retreat space where tourists can engage in Jiu-Jitsu camps and go on safaris to see lions, elephants and giraffes. Camp attendees will generate funds to support the dojo and its programs. This model not only benefits the local economy but also provides an enriching experience for visitors.

The best place to get updates about the African community dojo is by signing up for Shiggi's Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/JustShiggi

Follow her martial and personal journey on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.ronin.storm/ and https://www.instagram.com/justshiggi

Finally, follow Shiggi on YouTube as well: https://www.youtube.com/@justshiggi

Thanks!

Stephan Kesting