Exploring 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu with Eddie Bravo

In a recent episode of the JRE MMA Show, available on YouTube, Eddie Bravo, the founder of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, sits down to discuss his innovative approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). This episode, posted on December 19, 2017, offers an in-depth look at the unique system Bravo has developed, which diverges from traditional BJJ by focusing on no-gi grappling and unconventional techniques. The conversation provides valuable insights into how 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu has evolved and its impact on the sport of mixed martial arts (MMA).

Bravo explains the origins of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing its creation as a response to the limitations he perceived in traditional BJJ for MMA contexts. He details how his system prioritizes control and submission over points, aiming to create a more practical application for real-world fighting scenarios. This segment, starting around the 15:30 mark, highlights his philosophy of adapting techniques to suit the dynamic nature of MMA, where fighters often face opponents with diverse skill sets.

Key Techniques and Innovations

Throughout the discussion, Bravo breaks down several signature techniques that define 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu. One of the focal points is the rubber guard, a position designed to control an opponent’s posture while setting up submissions. At approximately the 32:45 timestamp, he elaborates on how this guard allows smaller fighters to neutralize larger opponents by limiting their ability to strike or escape. This technique has become a hallmark of his system and is widely used by practitioners in no-gi competitions.

Another topic covered is the lockdown, a half-guard variation that traps an opponent’s leg to prevent them from standing or passing. Bravo discusses its effectiveness in maintaining control during scrambles, a critical aspect of MMA fights. Around the 48:20 mark, he shares examples of how these techniques have been successfully implemented by fighters training under the 10th Planet banner, showcasing their real-world applicability.

Impact on MMA and Grappling Competitions

The conversation also touches on the broader influence of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu within the MMA community. Bravo notes how his system has gained traction among fighters looking for an edge in grappling without the constraints of traditional gi-based training. At the 1:05:10 point, he discusses the Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI), a grappling tournament he created to promote submission-only matches under his ruleset. This format encourages aggressive play and has attracted top grapplers from around the world.

Bravo’s approach has not been without controversy, as some traditionalists argue it strays too far from BJJ’s roots. However, he counters this by pointing out the success of his students in various competitions and MMA bouts. This part of the dialogue, near the 1:18:30 mark, underscores his commitment to evolving the art form to meet modern combat demands, even if it means challenging established norms.

Philosophy and Future Directions

Towards the latter part of the episode, around the 1:35:55 timestamp, Bravo reflects on the philosophical underpinnings of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu. He stresses the importance of creativity and adaptability, encouraging practitioners to experiment with new techniques rather than adhere strictly to conventional methods. This mindset, he believes, is what keeps the system relevant in an ever-changing sport like MMA.

The episode wraps up with thoughts on the future of grappling and how 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu might continue to shape it. Bravo expresses optimism about the growing acceptance of no-gi styles and submission-focused formats in mainstream competitions. His passion for pushing boundaries is evident, making this discussion a must-watch for anyone interested in the technical and philosophical aspects of martial arts.