As part of our Series “Inspiring success stories,” I had the pleasure of interviewing Rigan Machado. Master Rigan Machado is a living legend in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is considered by many to be one of the greatest grapplers ever to walk the face of the planet. Master Rigan holds the prestigious Red and White Belt and is the nephew of the Legendary Grandmaster Carlos Gracie. He achieved his legendary stature at the world championship level by amassing a record like never been seen again. Machado holds a victory over Ron Tripp. Machado currently teaches out of his Beverly Hills California Academy and is an instructor to notable students Ashton Kutcher, Vin Diesel, Wiz Khalifa, and Charlie Hunnam from the television show Sons of Anarchy.

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That is indeed impressive, Rigan. You are a living legend in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and are considered by many to be one of the greatest grapplers ever to walk the face of the planet. How did you achieve this feat?

Rigan: I never think about it. I love what I do. l love my brothers, cousins, and the sport. I train and have the best time ever. I love the competition. I never predicted anything from it.

Please share with our global readers what was your greatest challenge in the world of Jiu-Jitsu. Do you have a story about that?

Rigan: My greatest challenge was against my cousin, Rickson Gracie. In the beginning, we had to fight each other in a big event. He was my coach and cousin; I didn’t want to fight him. But in Jiu-Jitsu, sometimes you have to fight people you love. We looked at each other and decided to leave everything on the mat. I come after you; you come after me. Don’t hold back! The chance to fight another amazing competitor, both (of us) going to
war, it’s not about winning or losing. We both make each other give 110%, and that’s the kind of fight I like.

You also hold the prestigious Red and White Belt! That is very impressive. Please share with our Global readers what that is.

Rigan: In Jiu-Jitsu, you have white, blue, purple, brown, and black. Once you accomplish the black belt, the red and white belt is the master series. In the master series, you have eight series or stripes before the final master red belt. I believe there are only 50 people worldwide with a red and white belt and only 20 with a red belt.

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As a Champ in the sports sector, we understand you’ll be helping many public figures enhance their performances at OYA resorts. How exciting is this experience for you?

Rigan: This experience is very exciting for me. Jiu-Jitsu and the OYA resort concept and OYA products indeed serve the Mind and the Body. These products have the same philosophy and culture as Jiu-Jitsu. And it’s fascinating for me to be able to invite my global circle into the world of OYA.

We can understand that there is much more to share about OYA and the exciting recent collaboration. Where and how did you meet Mayan and his wife, Michala Metzler?

Rigan: I met them in Los Angeles through my dear friend Marco :)…I truly love OYA company’s Concept and OYA products. I would like for my Global circle of friends to go ahead and check the OYA website for detailed info. I’m truly super excited about the announcement with OYA. Following our recent collaboration, I’m looking forward to also promoting OYA products globally.

Are there other plans for the OYA project or products you’re working on? Would you like to share?

Rigan: The plan is that together, We’re going to create phenomenal achievements, with great hope to help OYA products grow in my Global community of Jiu-Jitsu.

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Do you have a brief favorite “life lesson” or quote that profoundly impacted your life? Please share with our global readers.

Rigan: Leave your ego at the door and remain humble forever. Treat everyone exactly the same.

Understanding that none of us can achieve success without help, is there a
particular person you are grateful to, someone who helped get you to where you are?

Rigan: Interesting question, Marco! My brothers are my biggest motivation for me. Without them, I am nobody.

Please share with us. Is there a person with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch? If so, why? (They might see this).

Rigan: I would love to have breakfast or lunch with Michael Jordan. What he accomplished as an athlete and as a businessman. He is an example for any motivational athlete.

I’m certain that we will have another fantastic Q&A, Interview as we progress with the OYA collaboration, and before we wrap this up, Is there anything else you would like to share with us today?

Rigan: well, briefly, I can tell you that whatever you choose to work on, give 100%, and I promise that you will experience fantastic results. Lastly, if you love Jiu-Jitsu, then Jiu-Jitsu will love you back 100%. Same thing with life.

Please tell us how our global readers can keep up with you on social media or a website.

Rigan: Thank you! and we welcome all readers to reach out to me via Twitter and Instagram, and YouTube

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Thank you, Rigan, for joining us today. This was indeed inspirational!, and wishing you and the OYA mission continued global success.