Rising Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu star Mica Galvao has weighed in on one of the sport’s most hotly debated topics offering his perspective on who deserves recognition as the greatest of all time in BJJ.
When asked about the GOAT discussion, Galvao didn’t hesitate to name his pick. “It has to be Roger,” he stated confidently referring to the legendary Roger Gracie. The young MMA star grappler’s reasoning reflects a deep appreciation for versatility and completeness in martial arts.
“In my view in my perception it would be Roger,” Galvao explained to Raphaella Amorim. “Because the guy was the best with the gi without the gi. In MMA he also had MMA bouts.” His assessment highlights Roger Gracie’s rare ability to excel across multiple formats of grappling from traditional gi competition to no-gi matches and mixed martial arts.
Galvao acknowledged that other names certainly enter the conversation. “We can see other names. Undoubtedly there are other names,” he noted. However his conviction remained firm about what sets Roger apart from his peers.
“He was the most complete guy in my view,” Galvao emphasized pointing to the comprehensive skill set that made Roger Gracie such a dominant force across different competitive environments.
The discussion expanded beyond just the GOAT debate with Galvao sharing thoughts on other notable figures in BJJ history. When discussing the most intimidating MMA star grappler he pointed to Ronaldo “Jacaré” Souza describing him as someone who could compete effectively across multiple weight classes and possessed an unrelenting competitive spirit.
Galvao also expressed admiration for Rodolfo Vieira whom he considers the best athlete to retire early from competition. “Rodolfo Vieira was a guy that we… left MMA,” he reflected. “But on the day he retired early I think at that moment it was right but I say from my perspective as a fan I still wanted to have watched him compete a lot more.”
The young MMA star grappler’s analysis reveals his deep study of the sport’s history and his appreciation for different styles. His comments about Vieira’s pressure-passing game demonstrate his technical understanding: “It was a passing style a pressure style there that… if you pulled guard you were already screwed halfway.”
As for current competitors, Galvao playfully mentioned “Baby Shark” though he acknowledged with a laugh that his choice might be influenced by personal relationships calling it “clubism” — showing favoritism.
Galvao’s thoughtful analysis reflects the perspective of a new generation of BJJ athletes who have grown up studying the legends of the sport while forging their own paths to greatness.
