MMA Hall of Fame: Rorion Gracie

The older brother of Rickson Gracie, Royce Gracie and Royler Gracie was born on January 10, 1952. Rorion Gracie is the founder of Ultimate Fighting Championship. He is also one of the few people to hold a 9th degree red belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Rorion Gracie holds a bachelor’s degree in law, and is known for strongly defending the trademarks he claims for the “Gracie Jiu Jitsu” term and for the triangle logo associated with his academy. In fact, he was involved in a legal dispute against his cousin – Carley Gracie – for trademark infringement. Fortunately, he won his lawsuit and was awarded $108,000 in damages.

Rorion Gracie was also credited for bringing the No-Holds Barred Fighting in North America, and he has the record of fastest win in eight seconds.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Black Belt Magazine
2006 Instructor of the Year