BJJ Legend and Vale Tudo Pioneer Rickson Gracie reveals Parkinson’s Disagnosis

A Red Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu which is reserved for the highest distinction in the sport, Rickson Gracie reveals he is now battling with Parkinson’s disease. A Vale Tudo legend with a rumored 400-0 record in NHB fights was diagnosed 2 years ago and he is currently experiencing minimal symptoms.

Speaking on the Kyra Gracie Podcast, Rickson said, “Two years ago I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s so a lot fo things I would like to do physically I am decreasing, but at the same time for me, it was nothing very traumatic. I see that I am ready in my life for anything I accept well, not only things my mistakes but my victories. I accept my life well, what I’ve done you know, so I am happy today. I already did what I intended to do, my motivation to wake up in the morning and work continues so I see that like one more, let’s say…so it’s not a surprise but it’s a gift from God to see what you’re going to do, you understand, because if if you have a lot of money and you do things wrong, the money didn’t help you at all, but if I give you a lot of money, you start doing good things I’m proud to have given you the money. So God has now given me a situation where I have to transform this for the good and the relationship that I have isomer important to empower people is to transform the way we practice so that it is more accessible to the people who care most.”

A degenerative neurologoical disorder that causes uncontrolled muscle tremors, stiffness, and coordination issues, Parkinson’s is the same disorder boxing legend Mahamad Ali suffered from and at this time there is no known treatments that can help reduce the effect of the symptoms.

Rickson is the son of Helio and a 9th degree red belt who’s son Krone’s Gracie is an UFC fighter and a former ADCC Champion.