The debate between gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to evolve, with one of the sport’s most dominant figures weighing in decisively on one side. Gordon Ryan has articulated his preference in terms that go beyond mere technical considerations in a previous JRE appearance.
“But the thing about the Gi is, it’s just not as fun for me to train in the Gi as it is to train Nogi,”
Ryan explained. His candid assessment reflects a personal philosophy that prioritizes enjoyment as a driving factor in athletic pursuits.
“I find it’s much more enjoyable for me to train Nogi than it is in the Gi. So I feel like if I don’t enjoy doing it, why am I going to do it in the first place?”
This perspective challenges the traditional notion that elite BJJ grapplers must excel across all variations of their sport. Ryan‘s approach is direct — he has identified where his passion lies and chosen to focus his energy accordingly. His reasoning extends beyond personal preference to encompass his already established dominance in the no-gi realm.
“Like I’m already so good Nogi, I feel like I’m, you know, the best in the world, basically the best ever,”
Ryan stated. This confidence isn’t merely bravado; his competition record supports such claims. His logic follows that dedicating time to gi training would detract from cementing his legacy in the discipline where he already reigns supreme.
“Why would I take time away from that legacy to pursue something that I’m not even really particularly interested in?”
Ryan‘s stance gains additional weight when considering his predictions about the sport’s trajectory in America. He believes the competitive landscape is shifting dramatically in favor of no-gi BJJ.
“And honestly, that’s dying in America. Like in the next 10 years, the Gi is pretty much going to be phased out as far as competitions in America.”
His forecast paints a picture of gi competitions becoming increasingly marginalized.
“It’s going to be like a novelty where they have like some competitions here and there, but Nogi, as far as numbers support, Nogi is the way of the future as far as, you know, grappling, professional grappling goes.”
This isn’t the first time Ryan has expressed these views publicly, having previously shared similar sentiments on popular platforms.
