GRACIE FAMILY JIU-JITSU
EST. 1925
New Headquarters Coming to
HISTORIC FRANKLIN, TN
Founded in 1925, the original Academia Gracie established the very first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in Rio de Janeiro, located at Rua Marques de Abrantes in Flamengo. Nearly a century later, Ralek Gracie carries that legacy forward in Franklin, Tennessee, with AG1925 — a living homage to Academia Gracie’s enduring tradition since 1925.
The AG1925 Mission & Vision
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At the heart of the AG1925 Way lies discipline and the willingness to sacrifice for a higher calling. We believe that true mastery is forged through deep reflection in the present moment and by trusting our instincts—understanding that every so-called “obstacle” or opposing force along our path is, in fact, a guide toward clarity and opportunity.
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Our pursuit is not only personal but generational: to cultivate a legacy of honor that uplifts our families, strengthens our communities, and inspires future generations. With this vision as our compass, we align our actions each day with a greater purpose, ensuring that every step we take leaves a positive and lasting impact.
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FAITH | DISCIPLINE | TRUST | PROPRIOCEPTION | PERSEVERANCE | EMOTIONAL REGULATION | UNIFIED BODY | SELF-AWARENESS | ART OF MOTION | RESPONSE-ABILITY | SAFETY
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The legacy of my great uncle Carlos and my grandfather Hélio Gracie gave us more than just a martial art—it gave us a profound understanding of human will. Their mission in Rio de Janeiro was to empower their community with practical solutions to real-world situations.
Carlos and Helio handed down a philosophy that emphasized leverage, efficiency, and control over size or strength. Their process of continuous refinement became the foundation of Gracie/Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which evolved into a distinct system. Through ongoing testing, adaptation, and the creation of a methodology suited to its time, it became clear that the goal was not to accumulate techniques, but to cultivate a deeper adaptability—one that anyone, regardless of age, gender, or physical ability, could depend on in times of uncertainty. That same spirit of beginning with a clean slate, while honoring foundational concepts, continues to shape my practice today.
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- Ralek Gracie - Owner/Curator
From Our Family to Yours!
FROM RIO DE JANEIRO
TO THE VOLUNTEER STATE
PRESENTS
CONFLUENCE
CONFLUENCE is a love letter to martial arts — an intimate and cinematic exploration of its roots, philosophy, and global impact. Written and directed by Ralek Gracie, the film weaves together stories and technical interpretations from across cultures and disciplines, honoring the timeless art of self-mastery while revealing how martial arts shape not just fighters, but human beings.
Watch the feature-length documentary exclusively on GENZAI, media partner of AG1925.
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