Rigan Machado, a luminary in the realm of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, hails from the distinguished Machado family, comprising a quintet of brothers, each with their own unique contribution to the world of martial arts.
Born into a family of martial arts enthusiasts, Rigan's journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began at the tender age of five, when he first stepped onto the mat alongside his cousins, the illustrious Gracie family, whose name has become synonymous with the art.
In a candid interview, Rigan shed light on his connection to the Gracies, revealing that his mother's sister had the privilege of marrying Carlos Gracie, the visionary founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, whose innovative techniques and philosophies have had a profound impact on the martial art.
Through his unbroken lineage to the Gracie family, Rigan Machado embodies the spirit of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a testament to the power of family, tradition, and dedication to the art.
Rigan's perception of training underwent a significant transformation as he matured, evolving from a casual pursuit to a more serious and dedicated endeavor. By the time he reached the age of 14, his approach to training had undergone a profound shift, marked by a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. As a result, he began to amass an impressive record of achievements in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions, ultimately compiling an astonishing total of 365 wins and only 2 losses.
Rigan Machado's impressive array of accomplishments is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional skill, with a remarkable streak of victories in the Brazilian National Championships, claiming the top spot in every year and belt division from the tender age of 14 to 21.
This impressive feat is all the more remarkable considering Rigan's unbeaten record in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a staggering 13 years of unbroken success that speaks volumes about his mastery of the art.
A black belt awarded to Rigan by the esteemed Carlos Gracie Jr., founder of the renowned Gracie Barra, serves as a testament to his status as one of the original teachers who played a pivotal role in introducing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to America in its early days, cementing his position as a true pioneer in the sport.
Rigan Machado's remarkable curriculum vitae boasts an illustrious history of martial arts training, having had the privilege of learning from his esteemed relatives, including his cousins, the legendary Rickson Gracie and Rorion Gracie, as well as his cousin Rillion Gracie. Furthermore, he has had the honor of being instructed by his revered uncle, the pioneering Carlos Gracie Sr., a true pioneer in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Rigan's extensive family ties have undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his remarkable skills, which are now exemplified by his impressive 8th degree red and black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. However, his competitive prowess extends far beyond the realm of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, as he has also demonstrated exceptional skill and success in various other martial arts disciplines, including judo, Sambo, and wrestling, where he has achieved notable victories in tournaments and competitions.
Rigan Machado, a renowned martial arts expert, dedicates his time to imparting his vast knowledge to students at his prestigious school, "The Academy Beverly Hills," situated in the affluent city of Beverly Hills, California. This esteemed institution is a testament to his commitment to sharing his skills and passion with the next generation of martial artists.
In addition to his role as a instructor, Rigan Machado has formed a partnership with Sanabul, a leading sporting goods brand, which has led to the creation of an official Rigan Machado product line within the company. This collaboration not only serves as a testament to his influence in the martial arts community but also provides him with a platform to promote his brand and share his expertise with a wider audience.
Moreover, Rigan Machado holds the esteemed position of commissioner for the Jiu Jitsu World League, a role that solidifies his position as a respected figure in the martial arts community. This position allows him to play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of the sport and promoting its growth and development worldwide.
