10 Best Grapplers of All Time You Need to Know

Introduction to Grappling: A Legacy of Skill and Technique

Grappling, widely recognized as one of the oldest and most technical forms of combat, serves as the foundation for various martial arts and fighting disciplines. It encompasses a dynamic range of techniques focused on gaining dominance over an opponent, whether by controlling their movements, forcing them into submission, or achieving a decisive positional advantage. The art of grappling requires a harmonious blend of physical strength, timing, and intelligence, as practitioners rely heavily on skill rather than brute force.

Throughout history, grappling has evolved across different cultures and traditions, shaping disciplines such as judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, sambo, and submission grappling into modern-day practices. Ancient forms of grappling can be traced back to civilizations like Egypt, China, and Mesopotamia, where it emerged as a means of self-defense and athletic competition. The principles governing these combat forms emphasize leverage, balance, and strategic forecasting of an opponent’s intent—qualities that demonstrate the intellectual depth of grappling as a martial pursuit.

At its core, grappling is highly adaptable, allowing individuals of varied physical builds and backgrounds to engage. Unlike many striking-based martial arts, grappling offers a pathway for smaller or weaker competitors to overcome larger adversaries through technique and mechanics. This versatility explains its enduring appeal across competitive sports, mixed martial arts, and even practical self-defense scenarios.

The intricacy of its techniques has led to a deep reverence for the practitioners who master them. These athletes devote themselves to learning and perfecting submission holds, sweeps, escapes, and transitions alongside the mental discipline required to anticipate and neutralize their opponents’ strategies. The evolution of grappling as both an art form and competitive battlefield continues to inspire admiration, making it central to understanding the legacy of the sport and its champions.

From Olympians to icons of mixed martial arts, grappling showcases an enduring commitment to mastery. It has given rise to legends whose influence shapes its ongoing development, cementing it as a cornerstone of martial arts history.

Understanding the Art of Grappling Across Disciplines

Grappling, one of the most intricate elements of martial arts, serves as a cornerstone in disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Judo, Greco-Roman Wrestling, and Sambo. Its essence lies in controlling, neutralizing, and, ultimately, subduing an opponent through skillful techniques involving grips, holds, submissions, and positional advantage. Though each grappling discipline has distinct strategies, they share a universal emphasis on leverage, timing, and technique rather than brute strength.

At the heart of grappling is its core philosophy: manipulating an opponent’s body mechanics to achieve dominance. This principle manifests in various ways, such as executing a precise sweep to destabilize an opponent in BJJ or leveraging explosive throws in Judo. Regardless of the technique employed, efficiency is paramount. Grapplers must position themselves strategically, avoiding unnecessary exertion while maximizing their tactical advantage.

Each grappling discipline employs unique rules and objectives. For instance, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu prioritizes submissions, where techniques like armbars, chokeholds, and joint locks are used to compel opponents to concede defeat. Judo, by contrast, emphasizes throws and pinning techniques to gain points and win matches. Wrestling favors takedowns and controlling positions, rewarding dominance on the mat rather than submission holds.

The adaptability of grappling elevates its importance in mixed martial arts (MMA). Grapplers often showcase the ability to transition seamlessly between standing exchanges and ground combat, neutralizing opponents with their mastery of close-range techniques. Legends such as Royce Gracie demonstrated how grappling could overcome striking-based opponents, cementing its significance in modern fighting arenas.

Ultimately, grappling transcends mere physicality. It is a blend of mental calculation, technical precision, and an understanding of human biomechanics, revealing its depth as both an art form and a science.

Helio Gracie: The Godfather of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Helio Gracie stands as one of the most significant figures in martial arts history, earning the title of the “Godfather of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.” Born on October 1, 1913, in Brazil, Helio, alongside his brother Carlos Gracie, was instrumental in developing and refining Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) into what it is known as today. Despite being physically smaller and weaker than many of his opponents, Helio’s innovations emphasized technique, leverage, and efficiency over brute strength, which became foundational principles of BJJ.

Gracie’s dedication to modifying traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu techniques made the martial art more adaptable to real-world combat scenarios. Through countless hours of practice and experimentation, he introduced techniques designed to give smaller individuals the ability to defeat much larger opponents. His emphasis on ground fighting, submissions, and positional control revolutionized the martial arts world and established BJJ as a dominant force in combat sports.

In 1951, Helio cemented his legacy by engaging in a famous match against Masahiko Kimura, a renowned Judoka much larger and more experienced than him. Although Gracie lost the bout, his resilience and determination in the grueling contest earned him international acclaim and deepened respect for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This match further popularized the sport, inspiring practitioners worldwide.

Helio’s teachings were passed on to his sons and students, creating a lineage that remains central to martial arts today. Among his descendants are several world-famous grapplers, including Royce Gracie, major contributors to BJJ’s prominence in mixed martial arts (MMA) competition and beyond. Helio’s influence continues to resonate with BJJ practitioners globally.

Khabib Nurmagomedov: Dominance in Mixed Martial Arts

Khabib Nurmagomedov, a name synonymous with perfection in the world of mixed martial arts, stands as one of the most dominant grapplers of all time. Known for his seamless ability to neutralize opponents and enforce his will, Nurmagomedov’s grappling skills have earned him legendary status in the sport. As an undefeated fighter with a remarkable professional record of 29-0, his mastery in sambo, wrestling, and jiu-jitsu is unparalleled.

Nurmagomedov’s foundation in grappling begins with combat sambo, a discipline that blends judo and wrestling techniques with striking elements. This Russian martial art served as the cornerstone of his fighting style, giving him the ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling during matches. His wrestling prowess is often attributed to the rigorous training he underwent in Dagestan from an early age, honing his craft against elite-level competition and building an unrivaled work ethic.

One of the defining features of Nurmagomedov’s grappling is his top control. Once he secures takedowns—something he achieves with exceptional ease—he exerts relentless pressure and traps opponents in fierce positional battles for extended periods. His signature “Dagestani handcuff” technique, a method of immobilizing the opponent’s arms while raining down strikes or hunting submissions, has become emblematic of his dominance. Fighters caught in his grappling exchanges often find no avenues for escape, suffocated by his flawless control.

Among his most notable victories, his domination of Conor McGregor at UFC 229 stands as a key showcase of his grappling supremacy. Despite McGregor’s striking accolades, Nurmagomedov dictated the entire fight through relentless takedowns and ground control, ultimately forcing McGregor to submit via neck crank. His victories over other top-tier opponents such as Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and Rafael dos Anjos further solidify his position as a grappling icon.

Nurmagomedov’s ability to combine physical tenacity with technical precision played a pivotal role in his grappling success. His unmatched cardio allowed him to maintain pressure over five rounds, exhausting opponents both mentally and physically. His approach to grappling is calculated yet aggressive, constantly keeping adversaries on the defensive.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history, Khabib Nurmagomedov left the sport at his peak in 2020, retiring undefeated after capturing the UFC Lightweight Championship and defending it multiple times. His legacy in grappling is one marked by dominance, efficiency, and innovation—a standard against which future generations of grapplers will be measured.

Dan Gable: An Icon of Wrestling Excellence

Dan Gable’s name stands synonymous with dominance and dedication in the world of wrestling. Born on October 25, 1948, in Waterloo, Iowa, Gable went on to become one of the most revered figures in the history of the sport. His unparalleled accolades, tireless work ethic, and transformative impact as both a competitor and coach have solidified his legendary status.

Gable’s competitive career remains a benchmark of excellence. At Iowa State University, he compiled an astonishing collegiate record of 117-1, with his sole loss occurring in his final match—a defeat that fueled his fierce determination. In 1972, Gable captured gold at the Munich Olympics in the freestyle wrestling event, a performance so dominant that he won all six matches without surrendering a single point. His Olympic heroics continue to stand as one of the sport’s most awe-inspiring feats.

Transitioning into coaching, Gable shaped wrestling history further, particularly at the University of Iowa. As head coach, he led the Hawkeyes to 15 NCAA team titles between 1976 and 1997, creating a dynasty unparalleled in collegiate wrestling. Under his leadership, Iowa wrestlers captured over 150 All-American honors and 45 individual national championships.

Gable’s influence extended beyond titles and accolades, as his meticulous preparation and mental toughness became central tenets of his philosophy. His ability to instill discipline and inspire athletes has made him a revered figure in both sports and leadership circles. Gable’s legacy continues to inspire generations of grapplers worldwide.

Rickson Gracie: The Myth and Mastery of Submission Grappling

Rickson Gracie, one of the most revered figures in grappling history, embodies the essence of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). As a member of the legendary Gracie family, Rickson played a pivotal role in popularizing BJJ worldwide, inspiring generations of martial artists and athletes with his unmatched mastery on the mat. Known for his flawless technique, calculated precision, and mental fortitude, Rickson’s reputation transcends competition, entering a realm of martial artistry that few have achieved.

Celebrated for his incredible record, numerous accounts suggest Rickson accumulated over 400 victories in his career with no official loss ever recorded. His ability to dominate opponents across different fighting disciplines made him a hallmark of submission grappling. Whether facing opponents in traditional jiu-jitsu matches or battling in vale tudo (Brazilian no-holds-barred fights), Rickson maintained an aura of invincibility. His transitions from position to position exuded effortless grace while his submissions showcased ruthless efficiency, earning him rightful renown as one of the greatest grapplers of all time.

Rickson’s grappling style emphasized fundamental techniques perfected to near perfection, eliminating wasted movements and maximizing leverage. His favored principles—control, timing, and flow—form the crux of his strategic grappling philosophy. Advocating simplicity and clarity, Rickson taught that mastery arises not from complexity but from dedication to pure, fundamental skills executed flawlessly. This mindset continues to resonate within the global BJJ community, remaining a cornerstone of modern grappling education.

In addition to his competitions, Rickson is widely regarded as a teacher, mentor, and philosopher of martial arts. His inclusion in this list of elite grapplers is not only a nod to his impeccable record but also to his impact on the development of submission grappling as a worldwide discipline. Rickson Gracie’s legacy remains an indomitable force, etched indelibly into the fabric of martial arts history.

Joan Da Silva: A Trailblazer in Modern Grappling

Joan Da Silva is widely celebrated as one of the most innovative grapplers of the 21st century, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of submission wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Known for her unmatched technical precision and dynamic adaptability, Da Silva has been a force to reckon with in both gi and no-gi competitions. Her grappling style seamlessly combines aggressive takedowns, fluid transitions, and an unmatched ability to anticipate her opponents’ movements.

Competing at an elite level, Da Silva has earned championships in prestigious tournaments such as the ADCC Submission Fighting World Championship and the IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship. These accolades showcase her dominance on the mat and solidify her place among the sport’s most influential practitioners. Her signature submission, a modified version of the darce choke, has been a defining aspect of her skill set, with practitioners around the globe studying her techniques to refine their own game.

Beyond her competitive career, Da Silva has also contributed significantly to the grappling community through teaching and mentorship. Her academy has become a hub for fostering new talent, blending traditional concepts with modern strategies in grappling. Under her guidance, many of her students have gone on to achieve success at the international level, a testament to her dedication to sharing her craft.

Da Silva’s influence extends to her role as an ambassador for equality in combat sports. As one of the first female grapplers to headline major international events, she has opened doors for women worldwide, proving that skill and determination transcend gender boundaries. Through seminars, online tutorials, and public appearances, she continues to advocate for inclusivity and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Saori Yoshida: Redefining Wrestling on the World Stage

Saori Yoshida, a legendary figure in freestyle wrestling, stands as one of the most decorated athletes in the sport’s history. Born on October 5, 1982, in Tsu, Mie Prefecture, Japan, she emerged as a transformative force in women’s wrestling and left a legacy of unparalleled accomplishment and influence.

Yoshida’s competitive record is both staggering and unmatched. She claimed 13 consecutive World Championship titles from 2002 to 2015, dominating the 55kg and 53kg weight categories. Complementing her World Championship reign, she earned three Olympic gold medals in Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, and London 2012, setting a standard that few could rival. Her achievements extended to a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, solidifying her four-time Olympic medalist status.

Her technique was the cornerstone of her success. Known for her powerful double-leg takedowns, exceptional mat-sense, and resilience, Yoshida displayed a mastery of finesse and strength. Her adaptability made her nearly invincible, as she continuously innovated her approach to counter the strategies of her opponents. Furthermore, she was celebrated for her psychological fortitude, often outlasting competitors in high-stakes scenarios.

Beyond her accolades, Yoshida’s contributions to women’s wrestling are far-reaching. She played a significant role in promoting the sport on a global scale, becoming a role model for aspiring grapplers worldwide. Her influence contributed to the growth of women’s involvement in wrestling, particularly in regions where female participation faced cultural barriers.

Saori Yoshida’s name resonates not just for her accomplishments but also for what she symbolizes—excellence, determination, and the elevation of wrestling to new heights. Her legacy continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.

Kazushi Sakuraba: The Legendary ‘Gracie Hunter’

Kazushi Sakuraba is widely regarded as one of the most unconventional and inventive grapplers in martial arts history. Known by his moniker, “The Gracie Hunter,” Sakuraba earned his place in grappling lore by defeating multiple members of the famed Gracie family during his career. The achievements cemented his reputation as a pioneer of mixed martial arts and submission grappling alike.

Sakuraba’s style combined calculated aggression, creativity, and technical mastery, making him a transcendent figure in combat sports. He frequently employed unorthodox techniques that confounded opponents, epitomizing a daring approach to the art of grappling. His ability to adapt and innovate during matches showcased his deep understanding of human biomechanics and leverage.

One of Sakuraba’s most notable matches occurred during the 2000 Pride Grand Prix. There, he faced Royce Gracie in a legendary contest that lasted an unprecedented 90 minutes. Sakuraba displayed immense endurance and tactical awareness, using methodical defense and wear tactics to outlast the illustrious fighter, ultimately forcing Gracie’s corner to throw in the towel. This victory sent shockwaves through the martial arts world and demonstrated that the Gracie family’s aura of invincibility was not unbreakable.

Sakuraba’s success against members of the Gracie family stretched beyond Royce. He defeated Renzo Gracie and Ryan Gracie, solidifying his legacy as a grappling savant. His victories were not limited to a single family lineage; he also triumphed against notable competitors like Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Vitor Belfort in Pride Fighting Championships, showing versatility across disciplines.

Beyond his competition accolades, Sakuraba is celebrated for his humility and sportsmanship, which made him immensely popular among fans and peers alike. He remains a symbol of technical brilliance and fearless creativity, inspiring generations of grapplers and MMA fighters to embrace an adaptive approach to combat. Known for his iconic orange trunks and playful demeanor, Sakuraba is hailed as an innovator who changed the landscape of grappling forever.

George Hackenschmidt: Laying the Foundations of Professional Wrestling

George Hackenschmidt, often referred to as “The Russian Lion,” is widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in the early history of professional wrestling. Born on July 1, 1877, in Tartu, then part of the Russian Empire, Hackenschmidt’s dedication to physical fitness and grappling prowess shaped the wrestling world and inspired generations of athletes.

Hackenschmidt’s skills on the mat earned him widespread acclaim during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was renowned for his unmatched strength and innovative submission techniques. His feats extended beyond wrestling as he also excelled in weightlifting, bodybuilding, and conditioning—a true pioneer of overall athleticism. In fact, Hackenschmidt is credited with popularizing the “bear hug” as a legitimate move in professional wrestling. His unmatched physical prowess and technical skills set him apart from his contemporaries.

A major milestone in Hackenschmidt’s career was his victory in the inaugural World Heavyweight Wrestling Championship in 1905, where he defeated Tom Jenkins. This made him the first official holder of the title, cementing his legacy in professional wrestling history. Hackenschmidt’s rivalry with Frank Gotch remains one of the most iconic in wrestling lore, underscoring the competitive spirit that defined professional wrestling in its formative years.

Outside the ring, Hackenschmidt was a writer and philosopher, emphasizing the importance of physical and mental discipline. His book The Way to Live became a cornerstone of early 20th-century physical culture. He believed in clean living, proper diet, and hard training, ideas that still resonate in modern sports science.

Often credited as the “Father of Modern Professional Wrestling,” Hackenschmidt’s contributions go well beyond his own era. His emphasis on athleticism and sportsmanship helped establish wrestling as a respected discipline on the global stage.

Gordon Ryan: The Renaissance of No-Gi Grappling

Gordon Ryan’s ascent in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has reshaped the landscape of no-gi grappling, earning him wide recognition as one of the most dominant figures in submission wrestling. Known for his precision, calculated aggression, and mastery of intricate techniques, Ryan has set an unprecedented standard in grappling. His ability to outmaneuver opponents in high-pressure scenarios has become a hallmark of his skillset, solidifying his reputation as a true innovator in the sport.

Ryan’s technical expertise is backed by a deep understanding of positional control, submission chaining, and leg entanglements. His proficiency in the “no-gi” format, where competitors perform without the traditional kimono, has allowed him to embrace unique strategies that emphasize fluid movement and adaptability. Under the tutelage of John Danaher, Ryan refined his approach to grappling, incorporating cutting-edge systems such as the “Danaher Death Squad” methodology for leg locks and transitions. This has broadened the scope of techniques practiced globally within the no-gi community.

His decorated career includes major wins at the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) Submission Wrestling World Championships, a tournament regarded as the pinnacle of grappling competition. Ryan’s remarkable string of dominant performances and championships at the highest level has made him synonymous with modern grappling excellence. Additionally, his unmatched ability to analyze and deconstruct an opponent’s strategy has earned him the nickname “King,” reflecting his mastery of the sport.

Off the mats, Ryan’s engagement on social media has contributed to his popularity and elevated the visibility of grappling to a global audience. He has further supplemented his legacy through instructional videos and seminars, teaching the intricacies of his tradecraft to practitioners worldwide. By blending innovation, discipline, and a relentless drive for perfection, Gordon Ryan continues paving the way for new generations of no-gi grapplers, shaping the sport’s evolution.

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of the World’s Best Grapplers

The legacy of the world’s best grapplers transcends generations, offering a unique blend of technique, discipline, and resilience. Grappling, as a martial art, has evolved into a universal language of combat that adapts to various disciplines while staying deeply rooted in tradition. The figures celebrated throughout history have shaped this trajectory, each contributing something distinctive to the art.

It is impossible to discuss grappling without acknowledging the impeccable skill sets that these individuals brought to the mat. Whether through pioneering techniques or demonstrating sheer mental fortitude, they have etched their names into history. Their careers reflect not only physical dominance but also an intellectual understanding of grappling akin to playing a dynamic human chess match.

The methods and philosophies of legendary grapplers underline the importance of adaptability and strategy. Figures like Rickson Gracie popularized Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as an art of practical application, while wrestlers such as Dan Gable epitomized relentless work ethic and emotional discipline. These diverse approaches highlight grappling’s versatility, appealing to spectators and practitioners alike.

Moreover, their stories inspire more than just athletes—they serve as examples of human potential at its peak. Their seamless integration of technique with artistic expression makes grappling a sport, a science, and an art form all at once.

Through their achievements, these grapplers unify the global martial arts community, bridging cultures and traditions. Their timeless appeal ensures that grappling’s foundational principles—skill, respect, and perseverance—continue to guide a new generation of athletes around the globe.