Rigan Machado: The Untold Story of a Jiu Jitsu Legend – Family, Films & Hollywood | Ep. 7

EP.Join David Meyer and John Will as they sit down with the legendary Rigan Machado—one of the most influential figures in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a key member of the iconic Machado and Gracie families. In this in-depth interview, Rigan shares his journey from growing up in a house full of future BJJ champions, to dominating competitions in Brazil, pioneering Jiu Jitsu in the United States, and working with Hollywood’s biggest stars.Discover untold stories about the origins of the UFC, the family dynamics that shaped modern martial arts, and Rigan’s unique philosophy on training, teaching, and living with purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or new to BJJ, this conversation is packed with wisdom, history, and inspiration.This episode is directed and hosted by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie and music by Robel Borja. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with martial arts legends!Chapters:00:00 – Introduction: Meet Rigan Machado01:15 – The Machado & Gracie Family Legacy04:30 – Rigan’s Early Years in Brazil08:00 – Training with Family: The Big House12:45 – Competing in Judo, Sambo, and Wrestling16:20 – Moving to the United States20:10 – Building BJJ in America & Hollywood Connections25:00 – Celebrity Students and the UFC29:30 – Rigan’s Movie Career & Directing34:00 – Teaching Philosophy & Advice for Students38:15 – Awarding the Coral Belt & John Will’s Impact42:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Choose the Right Academy45:00 – Outro: Stay Connected & What’s NextLinks from the showWalker Texas Ranger - Machado clip​​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUSqG89vWwIRigan Machado school in Beverly Hillshttps://www.theacademybeverlyhills.com/Blow for Blow moviehttps://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0FBKL6F9Q/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_rMusic “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5AGet in touch! This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, editor & coproducer by Ryan Turner, producer & marketing Robbie Lockie, music kindly provided by Robel Borja.