The statue honoring Jiu-Jitsu Grandmaster Carlson Gracie was removed from Shimon Peres Square in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, last Friday after suffering repeated acts of vandalism.
The monument, which celebrates one of the most influential figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu history, was targeted twice in a single week, prompting city officials to relocate it for extensive repairs and maintenance.
According to the Municipal Department of Conservation, the statue had its commemorative plaque stolen and showed signs of significant structural damage. Even more concerning, technicians from the Monuments and Fountains Management reported finding drug paraphernalia around the monument, despite its proximity to local law enforcement facilities.
“We will have to remove it to rebuild. Another case of public money lost in an act of vandalism,” said Diego Vaz, Secretary of Conservation, expressing frustration over the damage to this cultural landmark.
The statue, unveiled in 2019, holds special significance for the martial arts community as it honors Carlson Gracie’s legacy in Copacabana, where he taught Jiu-Jitsu for more than four decades. It quickly became a pilgrimage site for practitioners and enthusiasts of the gentle art from around the world.
Carlson Gracie (1932-2006) was a pivotal figure in the development and global spread of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As a member of the legendary Gracie family, he distinguished himself both as a competitor and as an instructor who developed numerous champions throughout his career.
His innovative approach to the martial art helped evolve Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s techniques and training methodologies. Gracie’s influence extended beyond traditional Jiu-Jitsu, as he played a significant role in the early development of mixed martial arts competitions.
City officials have not yet announced when the restored statue will return to its place in Copacabana’s Shimon Peres Square, but the Jiu-Jitsu community is eagerly awaiting its reinstatement as a symbol of respect for one of the sport’s greatest contributors.
The repeated vandalism has sparked calls for improved security measures to protect cultural monuments throughout Rio de Janeiro, particularly those celebrating the city’s rich sporting heritage.
Tatame was the first to report about the development.
