Master Carlson Gracie, Jr. is part of a lineage that transformed martial arts worldwide. KUAM News sat down with the Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend during his recent visit to Guam hosted by Ryze Martial Arts and spoke about the island’s thriving jiu-jitsu community, and shared his passion for the sport that’s shaped his life. 

From Brazil to the Pacific, the Gracie name is synonymous with BJJ. "I'm the third-generation of the Gracie family," said Jr. "Son of Carlson Gracie. My grandfather is Carlos Gracie - he is the person who developed jiujitsu in Brazil."

He says his passion for the art runs deeper than the wins and medals, adding, "I feel very appreciated in this island. they are very respectful to the sport, as a developer, as a teacher. They take me and treat me like a Chamorro. They treat me really nice. I appreciate the opportunity to come here. I've been to many different places, I've been to jail to talk to the inmates, training the police department, so I consider they really take care of me....its been very successful."

Gracie, Jr. says Guam’s growth in the sport—from just a few gyms to almost a dozen academies—is nothing short of remarkable. He recently wrapped up a weeklong of instruction, knowledge, and energy at one of the island's newest gyms, Ryze Martial Arts.

"Whoever didn't make it, missed out on the opportunity. The development is big. I believe on this island, people have a talent for the sport. A lot of great competitors and teachers and the development of this island from the first time I came here is tremendous," he shared.

He says what makes the sport so powerful isn’t just the physical training—but the personal transformation that comes with it. "You can use for many aspects of life. Back in the days in Brazil, my father get many kids to come in because they were too hyper and needed discipline. Some people a little shy so they build confidence. So it's a big development not only physically, but technically and mentally," he said.

This October, Master Gracie, Jr. will join his family in Brazil to mark a century since their first school opened in 1925. But his message to Guam is clear—keep showing up, keep growing, and keep the legacy alive. "It's not only for kids but for every age. And it's a good way to gather with friends, everyone is healthy, and enjoy...it's not about competition....jiujitsu is more mental. In your life you need to be strong. is a perfect tool for that. you have to survive everyday."