Grappling Masters

by José M. Fraguas

Grappling took the world of martial arts by storm in the early 1990s with the advent of the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and other no- holds-barred events, and quickly became one of the most popular fighting methods in the world. In Grappling Masters, through conversations with historical figures such as Helio Gracie, Gene LeBell and Wally Jay, and numerous current world-class masters such as Rorion Gracie, Gokor Chivichyan, Oleg Taktarov, Rickson Gracie and Marco Ruas, the many threads of grappling learning, legend and lore are woven together to present a complete and integrated view of this eclectic art of fighting, philosophy, and self-defense. For the first time, interviews with 31 of the world’s top grappling masters have been gathered together in one book. Containing information that has not appeared anywhere else, the interviews contain intriguing thoughts, fascinating per- sonal details, revealing philosophies and hidden history. In these 31 gems, each master reveals a true love for the art and a deep understanding of every facet of the practice and spirit of the var- ious grappling disciplines. No matter how well you think you know these masters of unarmed combat, you haven’t truly expe- rienced their wit, wisdom, and insight until you’ve read Grappling Masters. Any practitioner who appreciates martial arts history and phi- losophy, and who feels that this rich heritage is a necessary stepping- stone to their own personal development, will find this book an invaluable reference and a must-have addition to their library.

Genres: Martial Arts

343 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Nestor Ivanovich · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book for sure , but it could really do without PR accolades before each presented Gracie. It read at times more as a propaganda for that family than book of interviews. Saying that, there were also interesting interviews there and even couple of good techniques presented, so all in all decent book.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

so far so good