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“Stay Strong, Master”- After Calling Parkinson’s “Gift From God” at 63, BJJ Legend Rickson Gracie’s Latest Update Sees an Outpour of Reactions From Fans

Published 06/25/2023, 1:53 PM EDT

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The legendary Rickson Gracie recently shocked people with his health issue. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. However, never the one to let setbacks affect him, he is back at work. It is a normal day in the office for the 63-year-old BJJ instructor.

In a recent interview, the BJJ legend admitted the neurological condition opened his eyes to the fragilities of age and reality. Instead of assuming it was a hindrance, he accepted it as a “gift from God”. The 9th-degree BJJ black belt holder’s incredible willpower, unwavering faith, and devotion deeply touched the fans, who poured in their respect.

Rickson Gracie is devoted to BJJ despite his struggle with Parkinson’s

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The former MMA fighter recently shared snippets of him tumbling on the mat and teaching the intricacies of BJJ to his pupils. He also penned a caption that displayed his commitment to his instructor’s job. He wrote, “Another day to give thanks on the mat.” [translated via Google].

Gracie, who had amassed an 11-0 professional MMA record during his career, showed his dedication to his craft despite experiencing symptoms like tremors and movement deficiencies. For BJJ athletes, where movements and techniques are of utmost importance, this can be a huge negative hit.

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In an interview, ‘The Last Samurai’ revealed, “I’m ready for anything in my life… I accept life, and what I’ve done, so I’m happy today. But this neurologic condition opened my eyes to my age and to reality… I have some hand tremors, a certain movement deficiency, things I didn’t have before.”

As people only got to know of his diagnosis recently, they were surprised. However, many were delighted to see him enjoy doing what he does best!

How did fans react to the Gracie’s dedication to his work?

Combat fans took over the comment section of the post with some heartwarming and positive comments for Gracie. Comments like, “I have a dream that one day I have the honor to be trained by the master @ricksongraciejj” and “Maximum respect 🙌” flooded the post.

In his prime, Gracie was so confident about his skills, he believed he could easily face Mike Tyson.

A huge fan had some deep words for the BJJ instructor, “We, the fans and admirers of the living legend Rickson Gracie, are certainly far more touched, saddened, surprised and moved by the news of his Parkinson’s diagnosis than the master himself. He is a warrior, he has the battle and victory in his essence, in his soul, in his DNA. Long life, great master!”

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Rickson Gracie also played a big role in the development of Jiu-Jitsu and Vale Tudo in Brazil. No doubt, people hold him in high regard in the world of combat sports.

More positive comments like, “Stay strong, Master! #oss”, “🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥👏👏👏 Master, I’m so proud… 👏👏👏” and “Shogun sir is not just the leader of our army! The Lord is the doctrine, the eternal inheritance. #bjjfilosophy” showed their support for him in the wake of his Parkinson’s diagnosis.

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What do you make of this utmost single-minded obsession with the work in the face of such a troubled condition? Do you believe his work in the sphere of BJJ commands respect? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Rohit Lohan

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Rohit Lohan is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports, with a passion for the sport that has spanned over a decade. His fascination with MMA stems from the thrill of knockouts, and he strives to bring that same level of excitement to his writing. Rohit's love for gripping stories is reflected in his articles, where he masterfully weaves together the latest news with compelling narratives.
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Edited by:

Anuj Jacob