Gordon Ryan is a name that is synonymous with excellence in the world of grappling. With a resume that includes multiple world championships and accolades in no-gi competitions, it’s hard to argue against the fact that he is one of the greatest grapplers of all time.
But what sets Gordon apart from the rest and solidifies his position as the most excellent grappler ever?
In this article, we will take a closer look at the factors contributing to his dominance in the sport and examine why he is truly in a league of his own.
Gordon Ryan’s rise to the top of the grappling world has been phenomenal. Starting his competitive career in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Gordon quickly made a name for himself by winning multiple IBJJF World Championships as a brown and black belt.
Gordon has competed in some of the most prestigious no-gi events in the world, such as the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) and the Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI), and has consistently come out on top.
He has won multiple ADCC World Championships and EBI titles, cementing his status as one of the best no-gi grapplers in the world.
Gordon Ryans' Dominance
Gordon has competed in some of the most prestigious no-gi events in the world, such as the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) and the Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI), and has consistently come out on top. He won the ADCC World Championship in 2017 and 2019 and EBI titles in 2016, 2017, and 2018, cementing his status as one of the best no-gi grapplers in the world.
One of the most impressive performances of Gordon’s career in the no-gi competition came at the 2017 ADCC World Championship, where he submitted all his opponents in the -88kg division to become the champion.
He also made history at the 2019 ADCC World Championship by winning the absolute division, becoming the first American to win the title since 1999.
His aggressive and dynamic grappling style sets Gordon apart in no-gi competition. He is known for his relentless pace and pursuit of submissions, which has resulted in him winning many of his matches by submission. His ability to finish fights with various submissions, including heel hooks and kneebars, is truly remarkable. He is also known for his versatility, being able to perform well in no-gi formats.
Innovative Approach to Grappling
Gordon Ryan is not only a dominant force in the competition. Still, he is also known for his innovative approach to grappling. He is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sport.
His unique grappling style has inspired many other grapplers to adopt a more aggressive and dynamic approach.
One of the most notable examples of Gordon’s innovative approach to grappling is his use of leg locks. Leg locks have traditionally been considered a “risky” technique in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Still, Gordon has revolutionized the way they are used in competition. He has developed a system of leg locks that is both high-percentage and highly effective.
As a result, he has become one of the world’s most successful leg lock practitioners.
Gordon’s innovative approach to grappling is not limited to just leg locks. He is also known for his unique approach to training and conditioning. He has developed a training regimen designed to improve his grappling performance, which has paid off in the form of multiple world championships and accolades.
Impact on Brazlian Jiu-Jitsu
Gordon Ryan’s dominance in the sport of grappling has significantly impacted how the sport is viewed and practiced. He has raised the bar for what is possible in the sport. His innovative approach to grappling has inspired many other grapplers to adopt a more aggressive and dynamic process.
In addition to his success in competition, Gordon has made a significant impact as a coach and instructor. He is known for his ability to break down complex techniques and make them accessible to grapplers of all levels.
His coaching has produced multiple world champions, further solidifying his status as one of the best coaches in the sport.
Gordon’s impact on the grappling sport extends beyond his achievements and coaching. He has also been instrumental in popularizing the sport and making it more accessible to the masses. He has a large following on social media and regularly shares his training and competition experiences with his followers.
Gordon Ryan also has a series of instructional videos, which have helped educate and inspire grapplers worldwide.
Moreover, Gordon’s competitive spirit and fighting style have influenced many grapplers to adopt a more aggressive mindset, which has led to a more exciting and dynamic sport. He is also known for his humility, which endeared him to fans and fellow competitors. This has made him a role model for many grapplers and young athletes.
In conclusion, Gordon Ryan’s dominance in grappling is undeniable. He has achieved unparalleled success in the history of the sport, and his innovative approach to grappling has had a significant impact on how the sport is viewed and practiced.
He is genuinely a one-of-a-kind athlete, and his legacy in the grappling sport will be remembered for years.
Mental Toughness and Competitive Edge
In addition to his physical skills and innovative approach to grappling, Gordon Ryan’s mental toughness and competitive edge are what sets him apart from other grapplers. He can stay focused and perform well under the most intense pressure. This is evident in how he competes, constantly pushing the pace and looking for the finish, even in the most difficult of situations.
For example, at the EBI 14 in 2016, Gordon faced off against Vinny Magalhaes in the finals. Vinny is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and MMA veteran known for his grappling skills. Gordon was able to stay calm under pressure and pushed the pace throughout the match, eventually submitting Vinny with a heel hook to become the champion.
Gordan Ryan's Relationship With John Danaher
One of the critical factors in Gordon Ryan’s success is his relationship with coach and mentor John Danaher. John is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and one of the most respected grappling coaches in the world. He has coached some of the most successful grapplers in the sport, including Gordon Ryan.
John and Gordon have had a close working relationship for many years, and it is clear that John has significantly impacted Gordon’s development as a grappler. John is known for his ability to break down complex techniques and make them accessible to grapplers of all levels. This has been instrumental in Gordon’s success.
John’s coaching philosophy is heavily influenced by his background in philosophy, which has helped him to develop a unique and innovative approach to grappling. His emphasis on understanding the fundamental principles of grappling has helped Gordon to develop a deep understanding of the sport and to become one of the most well-rounded grapplers in the world.
John’s guidance and coaching have been instrumental in Gordon’s success. In no-gi, John’s emphasis on understanding the fundamental principles of grappling and developing a deep understanding of the sport has helped Gordon become one of the best no-gi grapplers in the world.
John’s influence on Gordon’s grappling is not limited to just technique; he also strongly emphasizes conditioning and mental preparation. He has helped Gordon develop a training regimen specifically designed to improve his grappling performance, and it has paid off in the form of multiple world championships and accolades.
The relationship between John and Gordon is about more than just coaching. It’s also about a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses and mutual respect for one another. John is always there to support and guide Gordon inside and outside the competition.
John’s guidance and mentorship have helped Gordon become the grappler he is today. Their relationship will continue to be crucial in Gordon’s future success in the sport.
Gordon Ryan's Rivalry With Felipe Pena
Gordon Ryan has had many notable rivals throughout his career, but one of the most prominent is Felipe Pena. Felipe is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and multiple-time world champion, and he is widely regarded as one of the best grapplers in the world.
The rivalry between Gordon and Felipe has been one of the most talked-about in the sport. It is a testament to both athletes’ high levels of skill and competitiveness.
The two have competed against each other several times. While Felipe has had some success against Gordon, it is clear that Gordon is the superior grappler. One of the critical factors that set Gordon apart from Felipe is his ability to finish fights.
Gordon is known for his relentless pace and relentless pursuit of submissions, which has resulted in him winning many of his matches by submission.
In contrast, Felipe often relies on points to win his matches and has been known to play a more defensive style.
Furthermore, Gordon’s innovative approach to grappling and his use of leg locks are also factors that give him an edge over Felipe. Gordon has developed a system of leg locks that is both high-percentage and highly effective, which has been a major factor in his success in competition.
Gordon Ryan’s rivalry with Felipe Pena is a testament to both athletes’ high levels of skill and competitiveness. However, Gordon’s ability to finish fights, versatility as a grappler, innovative approach to grappling, and use of leg locks give him an edge over Felipe and solidify his position as one of the greatest grapplers of all time.
Is Gordon Ryan the GOAT?
Whether Gordon Ryan is, the most excellent no-gi grappler ever has been discussed among sports fans and experts. When assessing his accomplishments, it is hard to argue against the fact that he is one of the greatest no-gi grapplers of all time.
Gordon’s record of success in no-gi competition is unparalleled in the sport. He has won multiple ADCC and EBI titles. He is the only person to win the ADCC and EBI titles in the same year (2018) and the only person to win ADCC Open Weight and Absolute twice (2017,2019).
In addition to his record of success in competition, Gordon’s innovative approach to grappling and his use of leg locks have had a significant impact on the sport. He has revolutionized how leg locks are used in competition and have inspired many other grapplers to adopt a more aggressive and dynamic approach to grappling.
Furthermore, Gordon’s mental toughness and competitive edge set him apart from other no-gi grapplers. He can stay focused and perform at his best under the most intense pressure, which is evident in how he competes, constantly pushing the pace and looking for the finish, even in the most difficult of situations.
What's Next for Gordon Ryan?
Gordon Ryan has achieved a level of success in the sport of grappling that is unparalleled in the history of the sport. However, despite his many accomplishments, it is clear that he still has much more to give. So, what’s next for Gordon Ryan?
One of the most exciting possibilities for Gordon is the prospect of competing in mixed martial arts (MMA). Gordon has expressed interest in transitioning to MMA and has already begun training in striking and wrestling.
He has also stated that he has a long-term goal of competing in MMA, and it would be interesting to see how his grappling skills would translate to the cage.
Another possibility for Gordon is to continue to dominate in the no-gi grappling scene. He has already achieved a level of success unmatched in the sport’s history, but it’s clear that he still has much more to give. He could continue to compete in high-profile events such as the ADCC and EBI and look to add more titles to his already impressive resume.
Gordon is also actively involved in coaching and mentoring other athletes. He may continue to develop his coaching skills and build a successful team of grapplers. Gordon already has a reputation as one of the best coaches in the sport. With his unique approach to grappling, he could help to produce future world champions.
In conclusion, Gordon Ryan’s future in grappling is bright. He has achieved unparalleled success in the history of the sport, and he still has much more to give. Whether competing in MMA, continuing to dominate in the no-gi grappling scene, or developing his coaching skills, Gordon Ryan’s impact on the grappling sport will continue to be felt for many years.