Classic Jiu-Jitsu: Saulo Ribeiro, The Pioneer

In the opinion of many people, the sport has changed. 

Some would say evolved. Others might say it got soft. 

Saulo and Xande Ribeiro continue to showcase and spread a jiu-jitsu that is both modern and traditional at the same time. 

Jiu-jitsu that is true to the core fighting aspects while staying up to date with today’s technical innovations. 

Saulo, the elder of the two, is a black belt in jiu-jitsu and judo and a 5-time IBJJF World Champion, 2-time ADCC Champion, No-Gi World champion and multiple time Masters Worlds Champion.

His game is simple: takedown, smash and submit – something that stood the tests of time and forged a legendary career.  

But in Saulo’s earlier years he utilized one of the most diverse array of techniques in the sport. He would adapt to each opponent and play off their strengths and weaknesses. 

One of the greatest testaments to that were his wins at ADCC. After losing to Jeff Monson in the finals of 1999, Saulo returned with a new game plan and improved technical arsenal which saw him win 2 titles. 

When he faced a wrestler, Saulo pulled half guard and swept to the back or to get on top. 

When he faced another jiu-jitsu fighter, Saulo out-wrestled them then got on top and dominated.  

The strategy worked brilliantly. As No-Gi was evolving, very few jiu-jitsu fighters were winning with submissions from the guard anymore. 

And Saulo was one of the jiu-jitsu representatives who figured out no-gi. He devised a new path to the finish which inevitably began a trend in the sport. 

Still active in both teaching and competing today, Saulo’s matches can always steal the show. From his amazing throws to his dominating submissions, his style is one for everybody to enjoy and marvel at.