Amazing social projects, rivalries heating up, and a gringo lost in Rio — this week saw a variety of jiu-jitsu content. 

Gordon And Santos Exchange War Of Words

We’re psyched for the upcoming match between Gordon Ryan and two-time ADCC and two-time IBJJF world no-gi champion Yuri Simoes at KASAI Pro on Dec. 9 in New York… but Simoes wasn’t always the intended opponent for Ryan. 

It could have been none other than the beast Erberth Santos. Gordon had this to say:

"I’ll be happy to compete against Erberth. I don’t think Erberth stands a chance against me. I think I’m way better than him, without the gi at least, in every position there is. I hope someone can translate this to Portuguese for him.”

Obviously, Erberth wasn’t going to take this lying down: His response can be seen here.

Favela Jiu-Jitsu: Nova Uniao Familia Bangu, Home Of Marcio Andre

Fabio Andrade is the founder of "Familia Bangu," a small social project that has been helping kids from one of Rio’s toughest communities to overcome adversity since 1998.

A well-liked figure in the sport, Andrade is a maybe best known as the coach behind world silver medalist Marcio Andre. Find out more about his wonderful project here.

Garry Tonon: The Highlights

There is not much to add to this one. Garry Tonon is incredible to watch. Sit back and enjoy the show. 

Gringo In Rio: The Three Part Series

We sent Chase Smith, our very own gringo, down to Rio de Janeiro to experience the jiu-jitsu lifestyle firsthand. He competed in the Rio Grand Slam, received a private lesson from Caio Terra, and witnessed De La Riva’s seventh-degree back belt promotion. Here are Chase's thoughts on the matter. (Spoiler: he had a pretty decent time.)

• A Gringo In Rio: Competing In Brazil

• A Gringo In Rio: Private Lessons and Porrada

• A Gringo In Rio: Trip Defining Moment & Travel Tips

UNLOCKED MATCHES  

Marco Andre vs. Andris Brunovskis 2017 European Championships   

Jeff Glover vs. Justin Rader F2W Pro 11 

Social Media Roundup

Keenan Cornelius vs. Tim Spriggs IBJJF 2017 NY Pro

 Micro-Instructional from Caio Terra