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I want to take this opportunity to remind you of the main reason I have dedicated
my life to the improvement of this system: Jiu-Jitsu is first and foremost
a martial art, an art of combat. All the improvements that I have made were
with the goal of maintaining that objective.
However, I have observed that the popularization of Jiu-Jitsu is taking the
focus away from the essence of its existence. Current Jiu-Jitsu competitions
have too many rules that encourage a mentality of stalling instead of an objective
pursuit of excellence through gaining submission.
I believe the time has come for us to join together and
re-focus on the true purpose of what is the most effective form of combat
in the world today. Competitions should be a means for you to polish your
self-defensive skills in a safe environment. Instead, many people today are
learning to use the subtlety of the rules to win tournaments. This practice
more often than not rewards unworthy champions.
The International Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Federation has been
created with my blessing, to organize events that will set new standards in
the practice of Jiu-Jitsu. I hope you join me at this crucial turning point
in Jiu-Jitsu history.
Warm Regards,
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