We often talk about the Gracie family, but Brazilian Jiu Jitsu wouldn’t exist without Master Mitsuyo Maeda. Conde Koma was one of the key martial artists responsible for introducing Judo into Brazil, which BJJ would develop from.
He has an incredible story that all martial artists and combat sports need to know. Going over Mitsuyo Maeda’s journey across the world and how he was a key figure in the creation of BJJ.
Mitsuyo Maeda’s Entry Into Judo
Mitsuyo Maeda grew up in Hirosaki, Japan, and was known by the name Hideyo. Maeda had a small build but would still attempt to play sports as a child.
He attempted Sumo wrestling as a kid but lacked the build to go anywhere in the sport. Hideyo would not attempt learning a new style until after he finished high school.
When Mitsuyo Maeda graduated, he enrolled at Waseda University in Tokyo and then enrolled in the Kodokan in 1895. The headquarters for Judo was founded by Grandmaster Jigoro Kano.
Mitsuyo was barely above five feet tall, which led the reception workers at the Kodokan to think he was a delivery boy. This was when Jigoro Kano would enter and take Mitsuyo into the academy.
Kano would appoint his smallest and most intelligent pupil…
