Crazy List Of Eddie Bravo Facts

1. Who is Eddie Bravo?

Eddie Bravo is a true renaissance personality of BJJ and a modern-day martial arts master, who dabbles in multiple fields and crafts. He is a third-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Jean Jacques Machado. A podcaster, a stand-up comedian, and a musician.

He is a true polymath who has excelled in different areas of life. Eddie's unique style is not just limited to No-GI Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but also extends to his other dreams, as he brings his own brand of humor and creativity to his comedy, music, and podcasting.

Tony Ferguson with his coach Eddie Bravo

Eddie Bravo’s 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is the most innovative and effective form of No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu of the modern era. His academy conducts many competitions and goes by the name of (EBI) Eddie Bravo Invitation just like ADCC. He is not just an elite martial artist, but also a truly versatile in many other forms, and that is what makes him truly unique. His prominent students include Tony Ferguson, Kelvin Gastelum, and Joe Rogan.

Now let’s delve and discover some important and interesting life facts about Eddie Bravo.

2. Interesting Facts About Eddie Bravo

2.1. When and Where was Eddie Bravo Born?

Eddie Bravo was born in Los Angeles, California, on May 15, 1970. While growing up, he uncovered various martial arts from a young age. However, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu caught his attention, and he started training under Jean-Jacques Machado, who is an inspiring 7th-degree Coral Belt BJJ coach.

2.2. Always been a Proud Rebel

There are always some people born with distinctive idiosyncratic personalities. Most of the time society labels them as freaks and everybody continues to live their monotonous happy life. Eddie Bravo likes to challenge everything around him, we are not going to debate about his personal views. But when you have the gut to challenge everything you must present or implement a better solution or nobody would take you seriously.

2.3. Never Gave a Single Schmuck about What Others Think

Eddie Bravo is the bookish example of having a neglected childhood but he never made it an excuse. He always looked forward. Tried many things, built his dreams around those things, planned his steps, and failed in a bunch of things. Accepted the failure with an open heart, tried to learn, and happily moved on. I guess that’s all what is required for success in anything. Eddie has it all, an eccentric mind and the courage to do whatever it takes, and decided to pursue and give it all irrespective of the outcome.

2.4. First American Black Belt Under Jean-Jacques Machado

After years of hard work and dedication, Eddie Bravo received his Black Belt from Machado in 2003. He became the first American black belt under Jean-Jacques Machado.

2.5. What Was the Original Name of Eddie Bravo?

Eddie Bravo has always been known by his pen name, but not many know that it was not his birth name. His original name was Edgar A. Cano, but later, he legally changed his surname to Bravo, which was the name of his step-father.

2.6. What is the Secret Behind Eddie Bravo's Name Change?

Edgar A. Cano changed his name as a tribute to the man who raised him, and who played a significant role in shaping his success. Although like his real father, his stepfather was not around a lot but he was there for Eddie. Eddie wanted to honor the efforts of his step-father by taking his last name, which also reflects his personal beliefs and values.

Eddie Bravo's name change is also a reflection of his strong sense of identity and the importance of family. It is a metaphorical and meaningful decision that showcased his thankfulness and admiration for the people who have supported him and shaped him into the person he is today.

2.7. What is the Nickname of Eddie Bravo?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu mastermind is known by many names in the grappling world, but one of his most iconic monikers is "The Twister." Now you are wondering, where his nickname came from. Let's know the story behind Eddie Bravo’s nickname.

It all began when Eddie first introduced his modified version of the reverse Kesa-Gatame, the Twister Side Control. This innovative move quickly became a core position in his emerging style, and it wasn't long before his opponents were tapping out left and right, unable to escape his invincible Twister's grip. The Twister became a dreadful fear among Eddie's opponents.

But the nickname doesn't just refer to his signature move, it's also a nod to Eddie's unique and unorthodox approach to No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, one that twists and turns traditional techniques in new, unpredictable, and invincible ways.

2.8. When Did Eddie Bravo Introduce “The Twister”?

The Twister was first introduced to the world of martial arts in 2003 when Eddie Bravo used it to submit the legendary Royler Gracie in the Abu Dhabi Combat Club's Submission Wrestling World Championship (ADCC). This victory was considered a major upset at the time, and it put Eddie Bravo and his Twister under the spotlight as a lethal and legitimate submission technique.

Since then, the Twister has been adopted by fighters and grapplers at all levels, and it has become a staple in the arsenal of all 10th Planet No-Gi practitioners. It has been used in many high-level competitions, and it has been responsible for many sensational submission finishes.

How does a BJJ Fighter Execute “Twister”?

The Twister is a unique and highly effective submission technique that requires a high level of flexibility and technical proficiency. It involves twisting the opponent's spine in a very specific way, to force the opponent to tap out. It is considered one of the most dynamic and painful submissions held in the WBI and MMA although IBJJF has banned all the spinal locks including the Twister.

In short, Eddie Bravo's Twister technique is a true game-changer in the world of martial arts. Although it’s a move that requires a great deal of technique, skill, mobility, and practice. Once mastered it can become a powerful weapon in the arsenal of any grappler, a move that can turn the tide of any match. Eddie Bravo's invention is not only a testament to his own skill and creativity but also to the evolution and adaptability of the No-Gi grappling world.

2.9. Role of Eddie Bravo’s High School in His Career

Young Eddie Bravo attended Santa Ana High School in California which played a dominant role in his grappling career. Santa Ana High School, known for its strong athletic programs, has produced a number of successful sportsmen over the years, including Greg Louganis and baseball player Billy Bean.

Eddie Bravo performed well in his high school sports and became a well-known athlete of Santa Ana High School. His early training and experiences at the school have played a significant role in shaping his passion and skills in the sport, propelling him to become one of the most influential No-Gi BJJ fighters and coaches.

2.10. What is the Height of Eddie Bravo?

Eddie Bravo, the mastermind behind 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, stands petite yet powerful with a height of 5 feet 7.5 inches. Despite his compact stature, he has made a towering impact in the world of No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu with his unique style and innovations.

He has proven that size does not dictate one's ability to excel in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, instead, it's the passion, skills, and dedication that make all the difference. He is a true inspiration to all BJJ enthusiasts.

2.11. A Hardcore Advocate of a Million Conspiracy Theories

Many ancient cultures or most presocratics believed that the earth is flat or disc-like in shape. However, Eddie Bravo is also among the people who believe in and advocate the flat earth theory. He believed that all the information about space was fake. Religious institutions are corrupt and all the governments around the world are working together to enforce a New World Order.

2.12 Eddie’s Eccentric Passion to Become a Musician

Eddie Bravo is known for 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, but not many know that he also had a passion for music from his childhood. Inside young Bravo, thrives as a musician eager to cast a spell on the world through his music. He enjoyed playing drums and guitar and even moved to Hollywood in 1991 with the hopes of making his career in the music industry but failed.

Everything changed for good in the life of Eddie but his love for music remains and still continues. Eddie usually likes to direct the rap about 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu along with Grammy award winner Producer Danny Lohner.

While pursuing his passion, Bravo formed different Metal bands named Blackened Kill Symphony, Smoke Serpents, and Temple of Mir. He also recorded an album known as “Mixflip of Death and Devotion.”

This interesting fact showcases that Eddie Bravo is a multi-talented all-round person, who not only wants to excel in one field but also has a passion for doing multiple things. This fact serves as an inspiration for aspiring musicians who are also involved in other sports or activities, that it's possible to pursue multiple passions and excel in them. Eddie's story proves that with hard work and dedication, one can achieve their dreams in more than one field.

2.13. First American to Submit Royler Gracie

The Biggest Upset of Jiu-Jitsu History

One of the interesting facts about Bravo includes his mind-boggling victory against Royler Gracie. Being a fearless competitor, he stepped into the ring to face one of the most dominant grapplers of the 90s, the legendary Royler Gracie. Royler had an impressive record of four Mundials championships and two ADCC titles under his belt and was considered the god of Jiu-Jitsu and here comes Eddie. A Mexican nobody with a BJJ Brown Belt against a Brazilian Black Belt Gracie. Flew right into Sao Paulo. That fight of Eddie Bravo vs. Royler Brazilian was so hyped that Brazilian National Television broadcasted it live. 

The Rematch Drama of Jiu-Jitsu History

Eddie Brave submitted with Triangle Choke the legendary Royler Gracie and when he returned back to the US, Master Jean Jacques Machado promoted Eddie to the Black Belt. There was a rematch scheduled in the 2005 ADCC but unfortunately got canceled because Eddie was injured. Eventually, the rematch happened at Metamoris 3, LA. on 29 March 2014 under the submission-only ruleset.

Aftermath of Eddie Vs Royler Rematch

And Let’s be honest and discuss facts. Royler Gracie (age 48) returned to the mat for the first time since Eddie submitted him in 2003. In the rematch of 2014, Eddie Bravo (age 43) dominated the fight but never succeeded to submit him. After the rematch, Royler Gracie denounced the dominance of Eddie and still believed it was a tie. Officially the result was announced as a tie but when you see it. It definitely was not a tie.

Royler Gracie Expressed:

2.14. Eddie Bravo: Founder of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu

The main contribution of Eddie Bravo to the grappling world is his No-Gi 10th planet Jiu-Jitsu institutions. In 2003, Bravo founded a grappling school where he introduced the unique way of No-Gi BJJ. He has since opened several schools across the United States and continues to train many notable BJJ and MMA fighters such as Tony Ferguson, Ben Eddy, Vinny Magalhaes, and Joey Rogen.

Eddie Bravo and the Inspiration of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu

“Let Me Build an Empire”

Eddie and His Master Jan Jacques Machado were watching a Black Belt Jiu-Jitsu match in Mundial and Master Machado said to Eddie, "Man, this is boring".

Edie said, I thought, how is it exciting to do but boring to watch? Let’s make it as exciting to watch as it feels to do.

Eddie contemplated for a few days and reckoned that it was firstly because of the traditional Jiu-Jitsu point system and secondly because of the grips of the Gi.

He abandoned the Gi and made his version of Jiu-Jitsu as Submission only and boom, there you have it. A modern Jiu-Jitsu approach that is not only overwhelmingly exciting to play but a feast for the eyes too.

2.15. The Crazy Lone Wolf of Jiu-Jitsu

Eddie Bravo's 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu proved itself a revolutionary style of BJJ that has taken the martial arts world by storm. His innovative system of grappling focuses on adapting traditional BJJ techniques for No-Gi grappling and emphasizes the use of a rubber guard, Twister, Electrical Chair, and other innovative grappling techniques. One of the most striking features of Eddie Bravo’s 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is its emphasis on flexibility and fluidity to get the submission.

The impact of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu on the martial arts community is undeniable. It has attracted a cult-like following, and its influence can be seen in the training and techniques of BJJ fighters and grapplers at all levels.

2.16. Pioneered and Revolutionized the Rubber Guard System

Bravo is best known for popularizing the "Rubber Guard" system in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The guard system was first used by Nino Schembri but Eddie Bravo popularized it in his school. Many grappling techniques including submissions, sweeps, and defenses have been developed from the guard position.

2.17. Why Gi-Jiu-Jitsu Boycott Eddie Bravo

Reportedly, since the humiliating defeat of Royler Gracie, Brazilian media and other Gi-Jiu-Jisu since 2003. Mainly because of his success in 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu and his passionate love for controversies and his dauntingly straightforward stance about the Gi Jiu-Jitsu.

However, Bravo, undeterred by his opponent's accolades, rose to the challenge and delivered. In a thrilling match that will forever be remembered, Bravo pulled off the impossible by securing a triangle choke, becoming the first American (Mexican) to ever make a Gracie tap-out.

2.18. Successful Career of Eddie Bravo in No-Gi Submission Grappling

Bravo also has had great success in submission grappling competitions. He won the Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC) West Coast Trials in 2003 and the ADCC North American Trials in 2005.

2.19. Eddie’s Remarkable Podcasting Adventures

Eddie Bravo is known not only for his martial arts skills but also for his interest in podcasting. He began his podcasting career in 2010, with the launch of his show "The Eddie Bravo Radio Show." The show featured a mix of interviews, comedy segments, and discussions on various topics, including martial arts, politics, and current events.

Over the years, Eddie’s show has gained a large following, with fans tuning in to hear Eddie's unique perspective and candid commentary on a wide range of topics. He has interviewed many notable figures, including Joe Rogan, Neil de Grasse Tyson, and Tim Ferriss.

In addition to his original show, Eddie has also launched several spin-off podcasts, including "The Eddie Bravo Invitational Podcast," (EBI) which focused on the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions, and "The Dirty Sports Podcast," which covers a wide range of sports and pop culture topics.

Eddie's podcasting career is a testament to his versatility and ability to adapt to new mediums. He was an influential voice in the podcasting world and entertained and informed his listeners with his honest and unique perspectives.

2.20. Eddie Bravo Marriage

The Jiu-Jitsu master and the innovator of potential guard got married to Lux Cassidy in 2012. Cassidy is an ex-American model in the adult entertainment industry. She also has shown his performance on a big screen in “Beerfest” which is a comedy movie.

2.21. What is the Worth of Eddie Bravo?

The main income source of Eddie Bravo, who is a trainer and martial artist by profession and passion is the BJJ community is approximately $1 to 5 million.

2.22. Eddie Bravo Followers on Instagram

Eddie Bravo’s fans want to get a sneak peek at his professional life rather than his personal life. This can be proved by his Instagram followers which is almost 647k. Eddie Bravo’s Instagram is amassed with Jiu-Jitsu matches and graphics. His fans love to know about his grappling career and adventures.

2.23. Bravo's Vision for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Bravo has been vocal about his vision of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and his views on the Gi. He believes that his style of training will replace the old ways and take over Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

3. Lessons from the Life of Eddie Bravo

Once made a decision, Eddie always gave his level best and there’s no coming back whatsoever.

4. Criticism and Fair Assessments

There is a line around the block to criticize 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu and its founder, much of it is an unfair or uninformed reaction to Bravo's bold statements and actions.

Many attack Bravo for renaming positions and trying to take credit for them, but this is a strategic move to quickly communicate with students in competitions without tipping off an opponent. In fact, apart from all the drama and hype, deep down Eddie Bravo has tremendous respect for the whole Gracie family in his book Jiu-Jitsu Unleashed.

5. FAQs

5.1. How Many Schools Does Eddie Bravo Own?

Eddie Bravo introduced a unique way of grappling and opened “10 Planet Jiu-JItsu.” It has 100 plus schools of grappling all across the world.

5.2. What is the Rank of Eddie Bravo Black Belt?

Eddie Bravo has a 3rd-Degree Black belt in Jiu-Jitsu.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, Eddie Bravo is an intriguing and multifaceted figure in the world of BJJ. From his creation of the revolutionary style of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu to his success as a competitor, to his sense of humor, Bravo has had a prominent impact on the martial arts community.

His No-Gi adaptation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu), is a game-changer, it emphasizes adaptability and fluidity. His rubber guard technique is widely adopted and considered a modern innovation in the gripping sport of BJJ.

Eddie Bravo is not only a fighter but also a true artist, who is always looking for new ways to express himself in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. And just like a twister, he is both powerful and unpredictable, leaving his opponents and critics alike in a whirlwind of confusion and defeat.

Despite his unorthodox approach, Bravo has proven to be a true innovator and visionary in the martial arts world. He has also shown that unorthodoxy can lead to success and that success can come from out-of-the-box thinking. He continues to inspire and influence fighters and grapplers at all levels, and his legacy in the martial arts community is sure to endure.