The King of No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu

In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, few names resonate as loudly as Gordon Ryan. Known for his exceptional grappling skills and dominant performances, Ryan has carved out a niche for himself in the sport.

But how did this BJJ phenom rise to the top? How does he train? What are his core principles? Stick around and find out! 

Early Life and Background

Born and raised in Monroe, New Jersey, Gordon Ryan's path to becoming a BJJ legend was anything but ordinary. As a kid, he was athletic, trying his hand at various sports.

• Wrestling caught his attention early on, giving him a taste of the grappling world.
• But it was Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that truly resonated with him, becoming an obsession.

His older brother, Nicky Ryan, already deep into the BJJ scene, played a pivotal role in introducing Gordon to this art. The two would often spar, with Nicky sharing techniques and strategies, shaping Gordon's foundational skills.

Key Takeaways:

• Wrestling Roots: Before BJJ, wrestling was Gordon's first love. It provided a solid foundation, teaching him the importance of leverage and ground control.
• Brotherly Bond: Nicky wasn't just a sibling; he was a mentor. Their bond transcended family, becoming a crucial aspect of Gordon's BJJ journey.
• New Jersey: Growing up in Monroe, the local martial arts scene was buzzing, offering Gordon ample opportunities to train and hone his skills.

The combination of his wrestling background, his brother's guidance, and the vibrant New Jersey martial arts community set the stage for Gordon's meteoric rise in the BJJ world.

Training and Development

Gordon's initial foray into BJJ was under the watchful eyes of Miguel Benitez and, later, Garry Tonon. These early mentors instilled in him the foundational techniques and the importance of a strong work ethic.

But it was his time at the Danaher Death Squad under the legendary John Danaher that truly transformed his game.

Key Influences:

• Miguel Benitez: Introduced Gordon to the basics, ensuring he had a solid foundation.
• Garry Tonon: A pivotal figure who further refined Gordon's skills, emphasizing aggressive attacks.
• John Danaher: The mastermind behind the Danaher Death Squad, he played a monumental role in shaping Gordon's advanced techniques and strategies.

Training with elite athletes like Tonon, Nick Rodriguez, and Craig Jones at the Renzo Gracie Academy in New York, Gordon was constantly pushed to his limits.

This high-level training environment, combined with his relentless dedication, saw him rapidly ascend the BJJ ranks.

Did You Know?

Gordon's training sessions often lasted hours, with him meticulously drilling techniques until they were second nature.

His mantra?

Perfect practice makes perfect.

Competitive Career

The King has had a competitive career that can only be described as illustrious. His journey in the competitive world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a testament to his relentless pursuit of mastery and his unwavering dedication to the sport.

Major Titles:

• Winning the Newaza Challenge and the No-Gi World Championship as a brown belt in 2015, which led to his black belt promotion under Garry Tonon.
• He has also won the ADCC World Tournament multiple times (2017, 2019, and 2022)
• The IBJJF World No-Gi Championship (2018)
• The IBJJF Pans No-Gi Championship (2018).
• His victories in the EBI (Eddie Bravo Invitational) tournaments are also noteworthy, with wins in EBI 6, 8, 11, and 14.
• In 2022, he made history at the ADCC World Championship by becoming the first athlete to win the +99 kg gold medal and the open weight super fight belt in the same year. This unprecedented achievement further solidified his status as one of the most successful no-gi grapplers of all time.

Notable Rivalries:

Gordon's matches with competitors like Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida and Lucas "Hulk" Barbosa have been the stuff of legends. These intense face-offs had fans at the edge of their seats, witnessing BJJ at its finest.

One of his most notable rivalries was with André Galvão at the ADCC World Championship in 2022. The match was highly anticipated, with Gordon challenging the promotion’s open-weight (absolute) belt holder in a super fight.

Not only did he win the super fight, but he also competed and won in the +99 kilogram division, a request that was unprecedented given the prestige and cash prize on the line.

A Memorable Match:

One of his most talked-about matches was against Roberto "Cyborg" Abreu at the ADCC in 2017. Gordon's strategy and execution in this match are often cited as a masterclass in grappling.

Quick Fact:

While many fighters have signature moves, Gordon's versatility means he's unpredictable. Whether it's his lethal heel hooks or his precise back takes, opponents always have their hands full.

Weight Class and Significant Matches

Gordon competes in the Super-Heavyweight division (100.50 kg / 222.0 lbs).

• His aggressive, submission-oriented style often characterizes his matches, and his favorite techniques include the Triangle and Heel-hook.

Unique Style and Techniques

Gordon Ryan's approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is as unique as it is effective. His style is characterized by a relentless pursuit of submissions and a deep understanding of the mechanics of BJJ.

Approach to Grappling

Gordon's approach to grappling is methodical and relentless. He is known for his aggressive, submission-oriented style, often forcing his opponents to tap out with his precise techniques.

• His ability to maintain control and apply pressure is a testament to his deep understanding of BJJ mechanics.

Favorite Submissions

Gordon has a few favorite submissions that he often uses to secure victories.

These include:

• Rear Naked Choke - Gordon has used this classic submission numerous times in his competitive career. His ability to secure the choke, even against resisting opponents, is a testament to his technical prowess.
• Heel Hook - Another favorite of Gordon's, the heel hook is a powerful submission that targets the opponent's leg. Gordon's mastery of leg locks has made him a feared competitor in the no-gi circuit.
• Triangle Choke - Gordon has a knack for setting up triangle chokes from various positions. His ability to lock in the choke and force a tap is a sight to behold.

Innovative Strategies

Gordon is not just a master of traditional BJJ techniques; he is also known for his innovative strategies. He often uses a strategy known as the "Danaher Death Squad" system, named after his coach John Danaher.

This system emphasizes control over the opponent's legs, leading to a variety of leg lock submissions.

Personal Touches

I remember watching Gordon compete at the ADCC World Championship in 2017. His match against Keenan Cornelius was a masterclass in BJJ strategy.

Gordon managed to secure a rear naked choke, demonstrating his technical skills and strategic thinking. It was a match that showcased Gordon's unique style and solidified his status as a top competitor in the sport.

His aggressive, submission-oriented approach, combined with his innovative strategies, make him a formidable opponent. As we continue to watch his career unfold, we can expect to see more of his unique style and impressive techniques in action.

• One of the hallmarks of Gordon's game is his emphasis on strategy.

He's often quoted saying,

"It's not about being the strongest; it's about being the smartest on the mat."

This mindset is evident in how he meticulously breaks down opponents, capitalizing on their smallest mistakes.

Influences and Heroes

Every BJJ practitioner has their heroes, those they look up to and draw inspiration from. For Gordon Ryan, his journey in the sport has been shaped by several key figures.

John Danaher:

• Role: Primary coach and mentor.
• Impact: Danaher's analytical approach to BJJ has deeply influenced Gordon's game. The "Danaher Death Squad" is renowned for its leg lock system, and under John's tutelage, Gordon has become one of its prime exponents.

Gary Tonon:

• Role: Training partner and fellow competitor.
• Impact: Their countless sparring sessions have been a crucible for Gordon, helping him refine his techniques and strategies.

Tom DeBlass:

• Role: Early mentor and coach.
• Impact: DeBlass introduced Gordon to the world of high-level competition, instilling in him the values of hard work and dedication.

Outside BJJ

Gordon often speaks about drawing inspiration from combat sports legends like Muhammad Ali. Their mental fortitude, ability to perform under pressure, and sheer dominance resonate with him.

I remember a conversation with Gordon where he mentioned how these influences weren't just about techniques or strategies. It was about adopting a mindset, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and the belief that with the right approach, any challenge can be overcome.

Outside the Mat: Gordon Ryan's Life Beyond BJJ

Beyond the mats and the intense world of BJJ competitions, Gordon Ryan, like any other individual, has a life filled with interests, passions, and pursuits.

Family Ties:

• Connection: Gordon's younger brother, Nicky Ryan, is also a rising star in the BJJ world. Their bond goes beyond blood, sharing the mats and countless training sessions.
• Impact: This familial connection has been a source of motivation and friendly rivalry, pushing both to greater heights.

Hobbies and Interests:

• Downtime: When not grappling, Gordon is an avid gamer. Video games offer him a break from the physical and mental rigors of BJJ.
• Reading: Gordon often dives into books, especially those centered around mindset and performance optimization.

Philanthropy:

• Giving Back: Gordon has been involved in various charitable efforts, especially those aimed at helping underprivileged kids get access to BJJ training.
• Impact: By providing scholarships and organizing fundraisers, he's ensuring the next generation gets the same opportunities he had.

During a casual chat at a seminar, Gordon once shared how these off-mat pursuits provide balance. They're not just distractions but essential components that keep him grounded and holistic in his approach to life and BJJ.

Conclusion: Gordon Ryan's Legacy and Impact on BJJ

As we wrap up this deep dive into the life and career of Gordon Ryan, it's clear that he's more than just a dominant force in the BJJ world. He's a trailblazer, a trendsetter, and a true ambassador of the sport.

From his early beginnings in New Jersey to his rise as the King of No-Gi, Gordon has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in BJJ. His unique style, innovative techniques, and relentless pursuit of excellence have earned him countless titles and revolutionized how we view and practice BJJ.

Gordon's impact extends beyond the mat. His dedication to his craft, his commitment to continuous learning, and his willingness to share his knowledge have inspired countless individuals around the world.

Whether it's through his instructional videos, seminars, or simply his performances in high-level competitions, Gordon has made a significant contribution to the growth and development of BJJ.

Ryan is not just a champion; he's a game-changer.

"Train smart, roll safe, and always strive to be better than yesterday."

- Gordan Ryan

One thing is certain: Gordon's legacy in BJJ is already cemented, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.

Share this article with your fellow BJJ enthusiasts, and let's continue to celebrate the incredible athletes that make our sport so special.