“It’s as real as it can get. That has made me a better person. It’s made me a better man. It’s made me understand myself, my weaknesses, my strengths, the shit I need to work on. Jiu-jitsu has been one of the most valuable tools I’ve ever had in my life.” – Joe Rogan
Naomi Watts
Naomi Watts has trained judo for many years. She competed in amateur Judo championships from 1989 to 1992. She currently trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
“If we could just trust the moment that we’re in and live it in the way that you best can embrace it, it would be much better for all of us.” – Naomi Watts
Demi Lovato
Ms. Lovato is part of many UFC events and she is a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She has been seen training under Orlando Sanchez. She has also been spotted visiting Renzo Gracie’s academy in New York.
Demi has spoken before about the importance of working out for her mental health, advising people with depression, anxiety or stress to do the same. ‘I work out personally because of the way it makes me feel and the release of serotonin [happy chemical in the brain]. It’s important to take care of yourself physically but also mentally as well,’ she told SELF Magazine.
“I think scars are like battle wounds – beautiful, in a way. They show what you’ve been through and how strong you are for coming out of it.” – Demi Lovato
Ashton Kutcher
Ashton Kutcher is one of the higher-ranked practitioners. This famous actor is a purple belt under Rigan Machado.
“I don’t believe that old cliche that good things come to those who wait. I think good things come to those who want something so bad they can’t sit still.” – Ashton Kutcher
Keanu Reeves
Keanu Reeves, the Matrix star and the highest paid actor, is a long-time BJJ practitioner. However, he also trains kung fu and sword fighting. Pictured training with the Machado brothers.
“The simple act of paying attention can take you a long way.” – Keanu Reeves
Steve Maraboli
Famous Author and Behavioral Scientist, Steve Maraboli is a Blue belt under Renzo Gracie in New York City. Steve competes for Team Renzo Gracie, and is currently one of the topped ranked blue belts in the world. He also rolls at SerraBJJ – UFC Hall of Famer, Matt Serra’s gym.
“I can’t even begin to express what a life-changer Jiu-Jitsu has been for me. Free time doesn’t come easy for me, so I’ll be sure to schedule them in conjunction with my speaking trips. It’s important we create the space for things that are good for us. Mind, Body, Soul… what a tremendously positive impact it has had. So grateful to my trainers and my team! If you’re looking to make a multidimensional change in your life, please consider giving your local Jiu-Jitsu school a call.” – Steve Maraboli via Instagram
Margot Robbie
Margot Robby took up BJJ when preparing for her role as Harley Quinn in the movie Suicide Squad. She spent 3x a week practicing BJJ and even did all the stunts in Suicide Squad herself. It’s an incredibly empowering experience being able to do your own stunts.
Millie Bobby Brown
15 year old badass Millie trains at Phoenix BJJ in England under black belt Trevor Chamberlain.
“I don’t care what I look like; it’s how people think of me. And I do care how people think of me. I want people to say, ‘Oh, she’s nice,’ rather than, ‘Oh, she’s so pretty.’ – Millie Bobby Brown
Ed O’Neal
Ed O’Neil has starred in Married with Children and Modern Family. This American actor and comedian is a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu under the Gracies. His BJJ story pretty fascinating and you can read all about it on Bloody Elbow here.
Jonah Hill
Jonah said he wanted to try the sport after bullies who trained in Jiu Jitsu would beat him up at parties.
“Got my first stripe today. I know it sounds corny but it’s pretty dope to jump in and do stuff you’d never think you’d be able to do,” he wrote on Instagram.
Joe Rogan
Podcast host, Standup comedian, and UFC commentator, Joe Rogan is a 10th Planet black belt under his buddy Eddie Bravo.
“It’s as real as it can get. That has made me a better person. It’s made me a better man. It’s made me understand myself, my weaknesses, my strengths, the shit I need to work on. Jiu-jitsu has been one of the most valuable tools I’ve ever had in my life.” – Joe Rogan
