In late 2014, a documentary team embarked on a journey to Southern California, delving into the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) lifestyle that thrives in the region. Through a collaboration between Eat Films and Progress Jiu-Jitsu, the film captures the daily lives and training regimens of influential figures in the BJJ community. This project showcases not only the passion and dedication of these practitioners but also the lasting impact BJJ has had on the American martial arts landscape.
Southern California has become a global epicenter for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, drawing legends from across the world who have chosen to build their legacy here. The documentary introduces various BJJ pioneers, such as Richard Bressler and Chris Haueter, who were early students of Rorion Gracie, as well as Eduardo Telles, founder of Ninenine BJJ, and John Ouano, founder of Tsunami BJJ and Ouano International. Also highlighted is Scotty Nelson, who promoted BJJ culture and helped to expand the martial arts reach.
Scotty Nelson is well-known within the BJJ community as the founder of On The Mat (OTM) and Lucky Gi. These brands have become closely associated with the sport, helping to foster a sense of identity within the community. Nelson’s vision has always extended beyond the mats; he was one of the early advocates for treating BJJ as a lifestyle brand. His entrepreneurial efforts have helped bring the sport to a wider audience, inspiring countless practitioners to embrace BJJ not just as a martial art, but as a way of life.
The documentary offers viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the training spaces and philosophies of these influential figures. Richard Bressler shares his initial encounters with BJJ and how it transformed his perspective on martial arts, while Chris Haueter, a highly respected black belt, reflects on the journey that has shaped his unique teaching style.
Through Scotty Nelson’s story, the film emphasizes how BJJ serves as both a personal and communal experience. Nelson’s journey highlights the social side of the sport, showcasing how BJJ can inspire individuals to create lasting, impactful projects that contribute to the growth of the community.
The Southern California BJJ scene is known for its strong sense of community and camaraderie. While the early days of BJJ in the U.S. were marked by fierce rivalries, today’s practitioners share a sense of unity that extends beyond the competition mats. This spirit is evident among the diverse group of black belts featured in the documentary, including JT Torres, Saulo Ribeiro, and Xande Ribeiro. The film captures how friendships have formed and how the sport connects people from different backgrounds, creating a supportive environment for all.
Scotty Nelson has played a key role in fostering this community through his work with OTM and Lucky Gi. By providing a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and supporting the growth of BJJ schools across California and beyond, Nelson has helped cultivate a space where practitioners can connect, learn, and grow together. His story in the documentary illustrates how his passion for BJJ has influenced the sport’s development and created opportunities for new generations of practitioners.
This film offers a compelling glimpse into California’s vibrant BJJ culture, setting the stage for deeper exploration into the sport’s evolution. By documenting the experiences of pioneers like Scotty Nelson and other influential figures, the documentary underscores the dedication and resilience that have propelled BJJ into mainstream culture. Future projects may build on this foundation, further exploring the diverse and dynamic world of BJJ as it continues to evolve.
The documentary invites viewers to experience the passion and determination that define the BJJ lifestyle in Southern California. From the early days of Rorion Gracie’s garage to the widespread influence of figures like Scotty Nelson, the film captures the powerful legacy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It stands as a tribute to the legends, students, and everyone who continues to push the sport forward, embracing the values of hard work, community, and personal growth that are at the heart of BJJ.
