Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has seen a significant transformation over the past quarter-century, not just in techniques and popularity, but also in the controversial use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). This issue has become increasingly prevalent, affecting the integrity of the sport and sparking debates within the BJJ community.
The Rise of PEDs in BJJ
The use of PEDs in BJJ has seen a notable increase in recent years, particularly as the sport has grown more competitive and professional. As BJJ's popularity exploded, so did the pressure on practitioners to perform at the highest level. This pressure, combined with the potential for financial gain and recognition, has led some athletes to turn to PEDs for an edge in competition.
High-Profile Cases
Several prominent BJJ athletes have been caught using PEDs, shaking the foundations of the sport:
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Kaynan Duarte: The BJJ Black Belt under Andre Galvao tested positive in 2020 and was banned by USADA for a year.
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Felipe Pena: Pena failed a PED test in 2014 and was suspended by USADA in 2015 for testing positive for testosterone.
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Gabi Garcia: She tested positive for Clomiphene in 2013, a substance often used post-steroid cycle
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Vagner Rocha: The 6th-degree BJJ Black Belt was suspended from IBJJF competitions after refusing to submit samples for testing at the 2022 IBJJF No-Gi World Championship.
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Mica Galvão: The youngest World Champion tested positive at the 2022 IBJJF World Championship and was stripped of his title. He faced a reduced one-year suspension after proving the drugs were prescribed.
The Anti-PED Stance
While some athletes have been caught using PEDs, others have taken a strong stance against their use:
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Mikey Musumeci, known as "Darth Rigatoni," has emerged as a prominent voice against PED use in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As one of the few non-Brazilian IBJJF champions, Musumeci's stance is rooted in personal experiences and a commitment to the sport's integrity. He has witnessed the long-term health consequences of steroid use among coaches, including serious issues like bipolar disorder. Musumeci's advocacy goes beyond personal choice; he aims to show the next generation that success at the highest level is achievable without chemical enhancement. His recent move to compete under the UFC banner is partly motivated by a desire to clean up the sport, as he believes many aspects of jiu-jitsu, including blatant PED use, have made it unprofessional.
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The Ruotolo brothers, Kade and Tye, have also taken a strong anti-PED stance, outlining multiple reasons for their position. Their primary concerns include the health risks associated with PED use and the importance of integrity in sports. The brothers are particularly troubled by the trend of younger athletes turning to steroids, citing examples like the 18-year-old competitor caught using PEDs at the IBJJF Worlds. Kade Ruotolo emphasises that their goal is not just about making the sport clean, which he acknowledges may be challenging, but about demonstrating to the next generation that success is possible without cheating. The Ruotolos' stance is grounded in a desire to preserve the true spirit of jiu-jitsu and protect the long-term health and integrity of its practitioners.
The Impact on BJJ Culture
The prevalence of PEDs has had a significant impact on BJJ culture. A survey conducted by BJJ Legends Magazine revealed that 20% of nearly 700 BJJ practitioners admitted to using PEDs in the past. This statistic highlights the extent of the issue and the challenges faced by the sport in maintaining its integrity.
The Future of Clean BJJ
As BJJ continues to grow as a professional sport, the community faces a crucial decision: to take a stand against PEDs or accept them as part of the modern game. The lack of consistent, year-round testing remains a significant hurdle in combating PED use.
Organisations like IBJJF are working to promote clean sport, emphasising values such as health, ethics, and respect for rules. These efforts, combined with increased awareness and stricter testing protocols, may help shape a future where BJJ can thrive without the shadow of PED use.
In conclusion, the BJJ community must come together to address the issue of PEDs head-on. By promoting clean competition and celebrating natural talent and hard work, we can ensure that the true spirit of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu prevails for generations to come.