A common term historically used in many BJJ gyms is now being declared as an ableist slur—a development that connects issues of language, inclusion, and the rapidly evolving landscape of “woke” culture.
“Spaz” is used in a unique and non-derogatory way on the mat—a term steeped in tradition rather than insult. The debate continues.
For decades, the word “spaz” has been casually dropped in gym banter and training sessions, often describing a burst of unpredictable or overly enthusiastic movement during a match.
In this context, the term isn’t intended to belittle or demean anyone with disabilities; instead, it has evolved into a playful descriptor among practitioners who understand its roots in the sport’s history.
Many grapplers point out that, in contrast to its more contentious usage in everyday language, the term operates differently in the specialized setting of martial arts. When someone “Spazes” on the mat, it typically refers to a moment of unexpected agility or a sudden loss of control—never as an insult aimed at any individual’s identity or abilities.
What’s The Deal with Saying ‘Spaz’?
Recent articles—even those found on reputable sports and culture websites—have sparked controversy by declaring “spaz” an ‘ableist’ slur. Critics argue that the word is loaded with historical baggage and that its casual usage, even in sports, could perpetuate negative stereotypes about neurological or physical disabilities.
Some folks have even linked these concerns to broader trends in what is often referred to as “woke culture.” Despite these critiques, the majority of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community counters that the term’s longstanding usage demonstrates an internal understanding of its intent, which is pure banter.
In BJJ gym settings across the globe, the expression is rarely, if ever, used with malice. Rather, it has become a part of the sport’s colorful lexicon—a way for teammates to describe a momentary lapse in technique or an unorthodox burst of energy during fierce grappling exchanges.
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On the mat, ‘spaz’ is simply a way to describe someone getting a little wild with their movements during a match. It’s not an insult—it’s part of our everyday language and has never been used to demean anyone.
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Such sentiments echo widely among practitioners who claim that the word is embedded in the culture of BJJ as a term of camaraderie and mutual teasing, not as a weapon of verbal abuse.
Balancing Tradition With Evolving Social Sensitivities
Language is inherently fluid, and words can take on new meanings as they transition between different communities. In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lingua, “spaz” has been repurposed from its general connotations into a term with a very specific, in-group meaning.
To many BJJ practitioners, its usage reflects the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of grappling arts—an evolution shaped by decades of training and shared experiences.
On the other hand, outside of this context, “spaz” may trigger associations with ableism due to its historical use in other social settings.
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“So @Beyonce used the word ‘spaz’ in her new song ‘Heated’. Feels like a slap in the face to me, the disabled community and the progress we tried to make with Lizzo.”
– disability advocate Hannah Diviney via Twitter.
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Critics suggest that regardless of intent, the word could contribute to a broader culture of insensitivity. They argue that even if it’s later reclaimed or neutralized within BJJ, its potential for harm in uncontrolled settings remains a concern.
Yet, many within the BJJ community argue that imposing a universal standard on this specialized language risks losing the rich, contextual meaning that has made the term so integral to the sport.
For them, understanding context is key—as with many forms of slang, the usage within a close-knit community can differ significantly from general public perception.
The controversy over “spaz” fits into a larger dialogue seen across various domains—from sports to pop culture—about reexamining language in light of modern social values. However, many BJJ gyms have resisted such calls, emphasizing that meaningful change must respect both tradition and intent.
Looking Forward: Is All the Fun Gone?
The controversy over the word “spaz” is mostly laughed off in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community although people outside of it seem to be getting really rattled by this form of ‘ableism’. For many on the mat, the term is a harmless, time-honored expression of spontaneity, never intended to inflict harm or perpetuate ableist connotations.
In the end, the word “spaz” in BJJ is more than just a label; it’s a reflection of a culture built on mutual respect, camaraderie, and an unyielding passion for the art of grappling. Only time will tell how this conversation evolves in the broader landscape of sports and society.
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