Gordon Ryan, born July 8, 1995, in Monroe Township, New Jersey, is widely regarded as one of the greatest submission grapplers in the history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Nicknamed “The King,” Ryan is renowned for his technical brilliance, innovative techniques, and unparalleled dominance in the sport. As a multi-time ADCC World Champion, IBJJF No-Gi World Champion, and EBI Champion, he has cemented his place as a legend in grappling.
Ryan began his BJJ journey at age 15, initially training under Miguel Benitez before moving to train with Tom DeBlass and Ricardo Almeida. It was under Almeida that Ryan was introduced to John Danaher, a revolutionary BJJ coach who would become instrumental in shaping his career. Under Danaher’s tutelage at Renzo Gracie Academy, Ryan became a key member of the “Danaher Death Squad,” a group known for its aggressive leg lock systems and dominance in no-gi grappling.
Gordon Ryan’s rise to prominence began in the mid-2010s when he quickly ascended the ranks with his impressive skill set and victories over high-level competitors. In 2016, at just 20 years old, Ryan won the Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI), showcasing his lethal submission game. This victory marked the beginning of his reign in no-gi grappling, where he consistently displayed a mastery of positional control, guard passing, and finishing techniques.
One of Ryan’s hallmark achievements is his unparalleled success at the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) World Championships, considered the pinnacle of submission grappling. He has won multiple ADCC titles across different weight classes, including the prestigious absolute division. In 2022, he achieved an extraordinary feat by winning both his weight class and the absolute division, solidifying his claim as the greatest no-gi grappler of all time.
Ryan’s grappling style is characterized by exceptional precision, versatility, and creativity. He is particularly known for his leg lock attacks, back takes, and transitions, all executed with an unmatched level of control. His ability to dictate the pace and flow of a match has left opponents struggling to mount any effective offense. Beyond his technical skill, Ryan’s confidence and mental toughness have been key factors in his success.
Off the mats, Gordon Ryan is a polarizing figure due to his outspoken personality and willingness to engage in rivalries and trash talk. However, his dedication to the sport is undeniable, and he has contributed significantly to its growth through instructional videos, seminars, and social media presence. His detailed instructional series, particularly those focused on leg locks and passing systems, are among the most sought-after in the grappling community.
Despite facing challenges such as health issues, including a chronic stomach condition, Ryan continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in submission grappling. His influence on the sport, both technically and culturally, is profound, and he remains an active competitor and ambassador for BJJ. Gordon Ryan’s legacy as “The King” is firmly established, and he is widely celebrated as a transformative figure in the evolution of grappling.
