The History of BJJ: How Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Transitioned From Gi to NoGi—and Hit the UFC Stage

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has always been about adaptation—on the mats and throughout its global journey. What started as a self-defense art rooted in traditional Judo has evolved into one of the most dynamic and fast-growing combat sports in the world. Today, the submission game looks radically different than it did even a decade ago, especially with the rise of NoGi grappling dominating professional circuits and streaming platforms.

At The Jiu Jitsu Lounge, we not only teach the history—we live the evolution. Let’s dive into how the game has changed and why more and more top athletes are trading in the Gi for rash guards and shorts.

From Japan to Brazil: The Roots of BJJ

The story begins in the early 20th century when Mitsuyo Maeda, a skilled Judoka, traveled from Japan to Brazil. There, he taught his grappling system to Carlos Gracie, who, along with his brother Helio, adapted the techniques to focus on leverage, timing, and technique over strength. This adaptation birthed Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, later known globally as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

For decades, BJJ training revolved almost exclusively around the Gi. The lapel and sleeve grips allowed for control-based techniques and positional dominance. The early pioneers of BJJ believed the Gi was essential—not just for technique, but for developing patience, strategy, and control.

The Rise of NoGi: Why the Game Shifted

Fast forward to the 2000s, and things started to shift. Athletes like Marcelo Garcia, Eddie Bravo, and later Gordon Ryan began popularizing NoGi grappling—a faster, more fluid version of Jiu-Jitsu without the traditional kimono. NoGi placed greater emphasis on speed, athleticism, and leg attacks—especially the heel hook game that was virtually nonexistent in traditional Gi tournaments.

This shift wasn’t just stylistic. As BJJ became more professionalized and media-friendly, NoGi offered a cleaner, more explosive spectator experience. It was better suited for MMA crossovers, easier to market globally, and required less investment for new practitioners.

At The Jiu Jitsu Lounge, we leaned into this shift early, building our curriculum around the fast-evolving NoGi game, while still honoring the roots of the art. Our style reflects the now of grappling—athletic, adaptive, and fiercely competitive.

From the Academy to the Octagon: BJJ on the UFC Platform

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu made its mainstream debut during UFC 1 in 1993, when Royce Gracie dominated larger and stronger opponents using pure technique. That moment shocked the martial arts world—and sparked a revolution.

But today’s BJJ is almost unrecognizable from that early footage. What was once a self-defense showcase has become a full-blown professional sport with its own leagues, superfights, and stars. Organizations like ADCC, EBI, and Who’s Number One (WNO) have elevated NoGi grappling to the spotlight. And now, with UFC Fight Pass broadcasting NoGi events, the art has come full circle.

Modern MMA fighters are not just “well-rounded” anymore—they’re BJJ specialists with NoGi systems tailored for the cage. Athletes like Charles Oliveira, Brian Ortega, and Gilbert Burns are carrying the BJJ torch under the UFC spotlight, blending submission mastery with striking prowess.

BJJ Today: Global Expansion and a New Generation

BJJ has exploded globally, with schools in nearly every major city and tournaments happening year-round. What’s more exciting is the youth movement—kids are starting earlier, training NoGi as their base style, and entering competitive circuits with hybrid skill sets. The art is evolving in real-time, and social media has only accelerated the pace.

At The Jiu Jitsu Lounge, we see this every day—athletes who are inspired not just by legends like Rickson or Marcelo, but by modern killers making highlight reels at ADCC and Submission Underground.

And unlike the early days, today’s BJJ is for everyone. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a competitor, or a parent introducing your child to martial arts, there’s a path for you. And more often than not, it starts without a Gi.

Final Thoughts: From Tradition to the Future

The history of BJJ is still being written—and it’s happening on UFC cards, on FloGrappling streams, and right here on the mats at The Jiu Jitsu Lounge. While we honor the roots, we’re proud to be part of the next wave—leading with NoGi, focused on innovation, and driven by a love for the game.

Ready to start your journey or evolve your training? Train where the future is being shaped. Join us at The Jiu Jitsu Lounge, where tradition meets transformation.