Support Richard Bresler In His Fight For A Healthy Life

Help Support Richard Bresler: A Jiu-Jitsu Pioneer in Need

Richard Bresler has dedicated his life to spreading the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in America. Now, this trailblazer and teacher needs our help.

"One of the Pillars"

Richard was Rorion Gracie's first regular student in LA, and is widely recognized as the first American student of BJJ. For nearly 20 years he worked closely alongside Rorion, helping to spread Jiu-Jitsu through the Gracie Garages—the first of which was in the house that Richard and Rorion shared in Hermosa Beach, CA—the challenge matches—many of which Richard arranged—the founding of the original Gracie Academy—made possible by a loan Richard made to Rorion—and the creation and inception of the UFC, which Richard financially backed.

He was one of the original instructors at the Gracie Academy, and in that capacity was many prominent American BJJ figures' first Jiu-Jitsu teacher. He has spent over 40 years sharing the art of BJJ—a journey chronicled in his memoir Worth Defending: How Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Saved My Life, which has touched the lives of thousands of readers. As Rorion Gracie has said: "Richard is definitely one of the pillars of Jiu-Jitsu in America."

Richard’s Fight for Recovery

Richard has been under medical care for over three months, in and out of intensive care, battling through organ failure and systemic infections.

These challenges have placed a tremendous physical, emotional, and financial burden on him.

After dedicating his life to building the Jiu-Jitsu community and touching countless lives, it’s our turn to rally behind Richard in his time of need.

How You Can Help

Your donations will go directly toward helping Richard and his family cover medical expenses, treatments, and essential living costs as he navigates this difficult time. Every contribution—big or small—makes a meaningful difference.

Join Us in Supporting a Legend

Richard’s work has laid the foundation for the thriving BJJ community we all enjoy today. Let’s show him that we've got his back and let him know he’s not alone in this fight.

If you can’t donate, please share this campaign with others. Together, we can ensure that Richard feels the gratitude and support of the community he’s dedicated his life to building.

Thank you for your generosity, kindness, and love.