When it comes to BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu), the Brazilians still have the upper hand. The art was created- modifed from Judo and traditional Japanese JuJitsu- in the early 1900’s, and introduced to America in the late 1980’s.
The World Championships (“Mundial”) was introduced in 1996, and only two Americans have reached the top of the podium at black belt: BJ Penn (Hawaii) and Rafael Lovato (Oklahoma). Only a handful of Americans have even placed: Garth Taylor (Silver), Bill Cooper (Silver), JT Torres (Bronze).
The race is on for the next American World Champion, but none are more likely than Keenan Cornelius. Besides winning the Worlds at purple belt and brown belt, he’s beaten several World-Class black belts already. Watch him submit former Pan American and World Champion Lucas Leite below:
For World Class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA training in Chester County, PA (including West Chester, Exton, and Downingtown) click HERE or call 610-269-1127.