Rigan Machado & Erik Paulson Promoted To BJJ Red & Coral Belts

Two legends of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have reached historic milestones – as Rigan Machado was promoted to red belt and Erik Paulson received his coral belt. These ranks represent some of the highest honors in the sport and are incredibly rare. As, while it can take over a decade just to earn a black belt, the […]

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Rigan Machado, a prominent figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and nephew of the legendary Carlos Gracie Sr., has been promoted to the prestigious 9th-degree Red Belt. The promotion was awarded by his cousin, Carlos Gracie Jr., at the Gracie Barra headquarters in Irvine, California. Machado, known for his extensive lineage and contributions to the sport, including teaching numerous Hollywood celebrities, is a direct student of Carlos Gracie Jr. and a key member of the Machado family, who have significantly influenced BJJ in the United States.

Simultaneously, Erik Paulson, a highly respected martial artist and founder of Combat Submission Wrestling (CSW), received his 7th-degree Coral Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This significant promotion was awarded by his long-time instructor, Rigan Machado, highlighting the deep connection and mutual respect between the two martial arts pioneers. Paulson's promotion acknowledges his extensive career, which spans various martial arts disciplines, including his notable contributions to submission grappling and MMA, making him a pivotal figure in the evolution of combat sports.

Both promotions underscore the enduring legacy and continuous evolution within the BJJ community. Rigan Machado's red belt signifies a lifetime of dedication and mastery, placing him among the highest-ranked practitioners globally. Erik Paulson's coral belt recognizes his profound impact on martial arts, particularly his role in integrating BJJ principles with other fighting systems, further solidifying his status as a true innovator and master in the grappling world.