While Gordon Ryan’s online presence can be polarizing, his teammate Helena Crevar offers a refreshingly different perspective on one of the sport’s most controversial figures. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion who recently made headlines for his controversial comments about basketball and claims of being “the most decorated athlete in history” shows a completely different side behind closed doors according to those who train with him daily.
During a recent interview on “Jitsu and Giggles,” Crevar opened up about her experience training alongside Ryan at New Wave Jiu-Jitsu in Austin, Texas. When asked about Ryan’s personality within their team environment, her response painted a picture that stands in stark contrast to his public image.
“His personality is definitely like much different than what you see online. He’s like the nicest people that I know and he’s always like down to help me or anything like that with my teammates with anything so yeah he’s definitely like one of the best people that I know and just like an overall really nice person.”
This insider perspective comes from someone who has had the opportunity to observe Ryan daily in a training environment since moving to Texas in December 2022. Crevar’s journey to New Wave began at the 2022 ADCC trials, where she first met Ryan at his seminar. After expressing interest in training at their private facility, she and her parents made the significant decision to relocate from Las Vegas to Austin.
The young phenom, who recently celebrated her 10-year jiu-jitsu anniversary at just 18 years old, has found both technical and personal mentorship within the New Wave team. Beyond Ryan’s coaching abilities, Crevar emphasizes his willingness to provide guidance on matters extending beyond the mats, including career advice and navigation of the sport’s business side.
“We did ask advice whenever is needed from John and Gordon because they do have a lot more experience,”
Crevar noted when discussing contract negotiations and career decisions. This mentorship has proven invaluable for someone who began receiving paid superfight opportunities at age 16.
Crevar’s testimony adds another layer to the growing narrative from New Wave team members who consistently describe Ryan differently than his public persona suggests. Previous teammates and training partners have echoed similar sentiments about his supportive nature and genuine care for his teammates’ development.
The contrast between Ryan’s online presence and his in-person demeanor highlights the complex nature of modern combat sports personalities. While his social media antics and promotional tactics may generate headlines and controversy, those who train with him daily see a different side entirely.
Ryan has become known for his outspoken nature, recently making waves when he shared a clip of LeBron James collapsing dramatically during an NBA game with a controversial caption. The grappling king has also voiced concerns about loyalty issues within the modern BJJ community, stating:
“The fact that this generation just forgets where they came from immediately the second they get an ounce of fame is just the most wild thing ever.”
According to Craig Jones, Ryan may be stepping away from competition entirely. During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Jones was asked about Ryan’s potential participation in his upcoming CJI 2 event in Las Vegas this August. When pressed about whether Ryan would be part of John Danaher’s New Wave team (now rebranded as King’s Way), Jones delivered unexpected news about his former training partner’s career path.
“He will not compete. I don’t believe he’ll ever compete again. I think this time it’s real. This time it’s a real retirement because of his health. I think he’s going into politics actually. I’ve heard. I think he’s going to run for Congress.”
In recent social media exchanges, Ryan has doubled down on his assertion of being “the most decorated athlete in history,” sparking debates among sports fans. When followers challenged his claim by suggesting legends like Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan and Tom Brady might deserve that distinction, Ryan responded confidently.
“The only one you could really argue is Aleksandr Karelin based on his record,”
Ryan wrote, referencing the legendary Russian Greco-Roman wrestler who went undefeated for 13 years in international competition.
Ryan then provided his perspective on his own career dominance:
“My all time record would be somewhere around 1500-15 if I had to guess. There’s never been a more dominant athlete in any sport than myself I don’t think.”
The grappling ace elaborated on what sets him apart:
“No one was so far ahead that they were calling subs to the minute, giving 10-1 odds on to the next best guy and just generally dominating like me.”
The exchange appears to have originated from a playful video Ryan posted featuring influencer John Gioffre, where the two engaged in physical challenges. In the clip, Ryan performs wrestling movements while Gioffre rates his athleticism, giving him a “6.5” for a front roll and potentially a “7” for a cartwheel.
Despite his controversial public statements and bold claims, Crevar’s insights reveal a more nuanced picture of the polarizing champion. Behind the provocative social media posts and headline-grabbing comments lies someone genuinely invested in supporting his teammates’ growth and development. Whether this private persona will eventually align with his public image remains to be seen, but for now, those closest to Ryan continue to paint a picture of a mentor and teammate who cares deeply about those around him.
