Introduction

The journey of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu owes much to one man: Mitsuyo Maeda. Known as “Count Koma” in Brazil, Maeda was a Judo master and martial artist who carried the legacy of Japanese Jiu-Jitsu across continents. His travels and teachings bridged two worlds, laying the foundation for the Gracie family’s adaptations and the creation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

This chapter traces Maeda’s life, from his early training in Japan to his global adventures and pivotal role in Brazil.

Early Life and Training

Mitsuyo Maeda was born on November 18, 1878, in Funazawa Village, Aomori Prefecture, Japan. Growing up in a time of significant cultural change, Maeda witnessed Japan’s modernization during the Meiji Restoration (1868–1912). Despite the decline of the samurai class, martial arts remained deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

In 1894, at age 16, Maeda began training in Jiu-Jitsu under Tsunejiro Tomita, one of Jigoro Kano’s earliest students. By the time Maeda joined the Kodokan in Tokyo, Kano’s Judo was emerging as a modernized and structured martial art. Maeda excelled, earning recognition for his skill in throws and groundwork.

Spreading Judo Across the Globe

In 1904, Jigoro Kano selected Maeda as part of a group tasked with spreading Judo internationally. Maeda, already known for his physical prowess and charisma, traveled to the United States to demonstrate Judo’s effectiveness.

Between 1904 and 1907, Maeda competed in various challenge matches across the U.S., defeating wrestlers and boxers to showcase Judo. His ability to defeat larger, stronger opponents earned him the nickname “Count Koma” (a reference to his elegance and fighting style).

Timeline of Early Travels:

• 1904: Arrives in the United States to demonstrate Judo.
• 1905: Competes in matches across New York and Chicago, earning acclaim.
• 1906: Travels to Europe, participating in matches in England, Spain, and France.

Arrival in Brazil (1914)

Maeda’s journey eventually brought him to Brazil in 1914. Arriving in the port city of Belém in Pará, he began performing demonstrations of Judo and Jiu-Jitsu. His displays of throws, locks, and submissions captivated audiences, earning him respect and recognition.

In Belém, Maeda befriended Gastão Gracie, a prominent businessman of Scottish descent. Impressed by Maeda’s skill, Gastão encouraged his son, Carlos Gracie, to learn from him. This relationship marked the beginning of a transformative era for Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil.

The Gracie Connection

Under Maeda’s guidance, Carlos Gracie began training in Jiu-Jitsu. Over time, Carlos passed his knowledge to his younger brother, Helio Gracie. Helio, smaller and physically weaker than Carlos, adapted the techniques to rely even more on leverage and timing, creating what would become known as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Maeda’s teachings provided the technical foundation, while the Gracie family’s innovations made Jiu-Jitsu uniquely suited to practitioners of all sizes.

Maeda’s Legacy

Mitsuyo Maeda continued to teach and promote Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil until his death on November 28, 1941. By then, his influence had already set in motion the evolution of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Today, Maeda is celebrated as a pivotal figure in martial arts history.

Key Contributions:

• Introducing Judo and Jiu-Jitsu techniques to Brazil.
• Demonstrating the adaptability and effectiveness of these arts through his challenge matches.
• Inspiring the Gracie family, who would innovate and popularize Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu worldwide.

Conclusion

Mitsuyo Maeda’s journey from Japan to Brazil was not just a physical journey but a cultural and martial bridge. His teachings connected the ancient traditions of Japanese Jiu-Jitsu to the innovations of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, laying the groundwork for a global phenomenon.

In the next chapter, we’ll explore how the Gracie family built upon Maeda’s teachings to create a system that revolutionized martial arts forever.