Sherdog’s Top 10: Jiu-Jitsu Players in MMA

Jiu-jitsu has played a major role in the creation and evolution of mixed martial arts. Had it not been for the triumphs of Royce Gracie at the first few Ultimate Fighting Championship events, the sport as we know it today might not even exist. When it comes to jiu-jitsu, plenty have mastered the art. However, that does not necessarily translate to overwhelming success in MMA.

In the latest installment of the Sherdog Top 10 series, we examine the best jiu-jitsu players to have competed under MMA rules. There is one caveat: They must have enjoyed a significant career in MMA. Marcelo Garcia, Roger Gracie, John Lewis and Robert Drysdale might represent jiu-jitsu royalty, but their careers in mixed martial arts have been either non-existent, subpar or undercut by out-of-competition infractions.

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HONORABLE MENTIONS: Rumina Sato, Royce Gracie, Vinny Magalhaes, Renzo Gracie, Rousimar Palhares, Vitor Ribeiro, Jake Shields, Bibiano Fernandes, Sergio Moraes

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