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Join David Meyer and John Will as they sit down with the legendary Rigan Machado—one of the most influential figures in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a key member of the iconic Machado and Gracie families. In this in-depth interview, Rigan shares his journey from growing up in a house full of future BJJ champions, to dominating competitions in Brazil, pioneering Jiu Jitsu in the United States, and working with Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Discover untold stories about the origins of the UFC, the family dynamics that shaped modern martial arts, and Rigan’s unique philosophy on training, teaching, and living with purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or new to BJJ, this conversation is packed with wisdom, history, and inspiration.

This episode is directed and hosted by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie and music by Robel Borja.

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Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Rigan Machado
01:15 – The Machado & Gracie Family Legacy
04:30 – Rigan’s Early Years in Brazil
08:00 – Training with Family: The Big House
12:45 – Competing in Judo, Sambo, and Wrestling
16:20 – Moving to the United States
20:10 – Building BJJ in America & Hollywood Connections
25:00 – Celebrity Students and the UFC
29:30 – Rigan’s Movie Career & Directing
34:00 – Teaching Philosophy & Advice for Students
38:15 – Awarding the Coral Belt & John Will’s Impact
42:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Choose the Right Academy
45:00 – Outro: Stay Connected & What’s Next

Links from the show

Walker Texas Ranger - Machado clip
​​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUSqG89vWwI

Rigan Machado school in Beverly Hills
https://www.theacademybeverlyhills.com/

Blow for Blow movie
https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0FBKL6F9Q/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Music “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A