Eddie Bravo: The Visionary Behind 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu
- Conor Heun
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
Redefining the Jiu Jitsu Landscape
When you hear the phrase "No-Gi Jiu Jitsu," one name rises to the top: Eddie Bravo.
As the founder of 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, Bravo didn’t just create a brand—he built a movement that challenged tradition, redefined the art, and cultivated an entire generation of submission grapplers. His innovations laid the foundation for what many now consider the future of the sport.
At 10th Planet Denver, our connection to Eddie Bravo isn’t just historical—it’s personal. Through Coach Conor Heun, a black belt under Bravo, we carry on that legacy every day. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned competitor, understanding Bravo’s story is crucial to understanding the ethos of our gym.
From Musician to Martial Artist
Born in 1970 in Santa Ana, California, Edgar “Eddie” Bravo originally had dreams of becoming a rock star. But after immersing himself in martial arts—including Karate and Jeet Kune Do—he discovered Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the early 1990s under Jean Jacques Machado, a direct descendant of the Gracie lineage.
While training under Machado, Bravo began to question the limitations of traditional Gi-based Jiu Jitsu—especially in MMA, where clothing grips didn’t apply. His analytical mind and creative spirit sparked an evolution: a No-Gi system that emphasized flexibility, unorthodox positions, and high-percentage submissions.
ADCC 2003: The Birth of a Legend
Eddie Bravo made history at the 2003 ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championship by submitting Royler Gracie with a triangle choke while still a brown belt.
This shocking upset sent ripples through the Jiu Jitsu world. Though Bravo lost his next match, his win over Royler proved that his unorthodox style worked at the highest levels—and it would change the game forever.
The 10th Planet System: Innovation Over Tradition
After ADCC, Bravo launched 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, naming it after his fascination with space and belief in exploring the unknown.
He completely removed the Gi and focused on a modern, system-based approach designed for both sport grappling and MMA. Key elements include:
Rubber Guard – a high-control guard built for breaking posture and setting up submissions
The Twister – a spinal lock submission rarely seen in traditional Jiu Jitsu
The Lockdown – a half guard position used to control and sweep
Structured systems – sequences built around traps, transitions, and control
10th Planet schools now span the globe, and its influence can be seen in top-level grapplers and MMA fighters alike.
A Cultural Icon in Grappling
Eddie Bravo became more than a coach—he became a cultural force. His unapologetic views, love for music, and flair for the unconventional helped shape a Jiu Jitsu subculture where creativity and individuality were valued.
He also helped pioneer Combat Jiu Jitsu, a ruleset that combines submission grappling with open-hand strikes, creating a powerful bridge between grappling and MMA.
Legacy and Relevance Today
Eddie Bravo is more than a technician—he’s a philosopher of movement and mindset.
His techniques and systems continue to evolve and are taught daily at 10th Planet academies around the world—including right here at 10th Planet Denver, under Coach Conor Heun.
His system is ideal for:
No-Gi Competitors
MMA Fighters
Flexible and creative grapplers
Anyone who wants to break out of the traditional mold and learn modern Jiu Jitsu
Join the Movement
At 10th Planet Denver, we live this system every day. Whether you're training for competition or just looking to challenge yourself and grow, you're part of a legacy that started with Eddie Bravo’s refusal to do things the old way.
📍 Visit us at:10th Planet Denver6161 W 44th Ave, Suite 150Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
🖱️ Learn more about our programs at 10thplanetdenver.com
Next Up in the Lineage Series
Stay tuned next week as we dive deeper into the roots of 10th Planet—featuring the quiet storm behind Bravo’s black belt: Jean Jacques Machado.
Comments