Breathe

Breathe is a captivating memoir from Rickson Gracie, the legendary master of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). This insightful narrative intricately weaves together the story of Gracie’s illustrious career with the broader historical backdrop of the Gracie family dynasty. Through this eloquent blend, readers discover how the deep connection between mind and body can be harnessed for triumph both inside the ring and beyond.

From his undefeated streak beginning in the late 1970s to his final bout at the Tokyo Dome in 2000, Rickson Gracie amassed hundreds of victories across diverse arenas: the street, the mat, the beach, and the competitive ring. His outstanding record and profound influence place him among the titans of martial arts, alongside legends like Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, and Jackie Chan. The Gracie family pioneered Jiu-Jitsu, propelling it to one of the most celebrated martial arts globally. Their mastery of Vale Tudo, a no-holds-barred form of Brazilian street fighting, laid the foundational stone for what would eventually become the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Quite simply, the landscape of modern MMA, the multi-billion-dollar UFC empire, and the widespread availability of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in communities around the world owe their existence to the Gracie family.

In Breathe, Rickson Gracie for the first time unveils the complete chronicle of how his father and uncles developed Jiu-Jitsu. Gracie provides an intimate glimpse into growing up in a lineage of extraordinary fighters and the principles and techniques that guided him to maintain an unrivalled record of success. Readers are transported from the gritty streets of Rio de Janeiro, where Gracie learned to assert himself, to the illustrious arenas of Japan, where he gained international acclaim and honour.

The memoir delves deep into his personal journey, recounting moments of severe challenges and heart-wrenching tragedy. Through these stories, Gracie extols universal virtues and illustrates how pride and ego are detrimental to true success. The rich narrative is enriched further with never-before-seen photographs and profound insights into both the sport and lifestyle from a storied legend. Breathe offers an enchanting and magnified view of an enduring legacy, coupled with an inspiring tale of navigating life's multifaceted challenges with elegance and resilience.