In a recent podcast episode, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legends Rodrigo “Comprido” Medeiros and Leo Vieira delved into some of the sport’s most debated topics…Including the contentious question of whether Gordon Ryan deserves the title of the greatest no-gi grappler of all time.
Comprido raised concerns about what he sees as Ryan’s selective approach to competition:
He chooses who he will face.For example, he grapples in the ruleset that he wants…
I think Roger (Gracie) did a much more, much more dominant…
Comprido also criticized Ryan’s openly admitted use of performance-enhancing drugs, which he believes detracts from his legacy.
The use of ster*ids, even if you say that everyone uses it, I don’t know what, man.For me, it already takes points for a lot of the guy.
Vieira, while acknowledging the challenges of comparing athletes across different eras – took a more balanced stance on Ryan’s accomplishments, while still defending his successes:
I think, comparing generations, is too difficult.He competed, but he proved to be a champion.In no-gi, he entered (IBJJF Nogi Worlds) and won, you understand?
He touched upon his personal experiences and thoughts on PEDs not being illegal in many competition frameworks:
I never took even vitamin C, practically.I was always afraid of a lot of things.
If it’s really something the federation agrees with, then I think you’re doing the right thing.You’re doing the right thing, understand?
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.
