Ricardo De La Riva

The Maestro of the De La Riva Guard

Name: Ricardo De La Riva Goded

Current Rank: Black Belt under Carlson Gracie

Notable Achievements:

World Bronze Medallist
Copa Cantao Champion

Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda --> Carlos Gracie --> Carlson Gracie --> Ricardo De La Riva

Ricardo De La Riva is a legendary figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, known for revolutionizing the guard game with the creation of the "De La Riva guard." He started training at the age of 15 after a dispute at the beach and was awarded his black belt by Master Carlson Gracie in 1986. De La Riva has also trained several important black belts, including Rodrigo and Rogerio Nogueira.

Biography

Early Life

Born in 1965 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Ricardo De La Riva's journey into jiu-jitsu began with a beachside dispute. Playing soccer with his brothers at Copacabana beach, a disagreement with another group of kids led them to leave the beach. Upon hearing the story, their father, a fan of Carlson Gracie, enrolled them in jiu-jitsu to learn self-defense. Ricardo was 15 at the time.

Formative Years in Jiu-Jitsu

Ricardo began his training at the Carlson Gracie Academy, known for its powerful guard passers. Being a smaller and more flexible individual, Ricardo had to adapt to survive against his heavier teammates. This led him to develop his own style of guard, which would later become the famous "De La Riva Guard."

Ascension to Prominence

Ricardo received his black belt from Master Carlson Gracie in 1986. His guard style was initially called "Guarda Pudim" (Pudding Guard) because it made his opponents wobble. However, the name "De La Riva Guard" became popular after he defeated the then-unbeaten Royler Gracie at the Copa Cantão in 1985 using this guard.

Achievements and Titles

Ricardo's list of achievements is impressive:

World Bronze Medallist
Copa Cantao Champion
ADCC Competitor in 2003

Legacy and Impact

In 1993, Ricardo decided to focus on teaching and has produced several notable black belts, including Rodrigo and Rogerio Nogueira, Walter "Broca," and Helvecio Penna. At the age of 37, he returned to competition at the World Championships in 2002 and won a bronze medal, a remarkable feat for someone his age.

Conclusion

Ricardo De La Riva is a living legend in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His innovative guard has influenced generations of fighters, and his dedication to teaching has produced some of the sport's finest talents. His story is a testament to the power of innovation, adaptation, and the indomitable spirit of jiu-jitsu.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ricardo de la Riva

General Information

Q: Who is Ricardo de la Riva?

A: Ricardo de la Riva is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a highly influential figure in the sport. He is best known for popularizing the "De La Riva" guard, a groundbreaking technique in BJJ.

Career and Achievements

Q: What are some of Ricardo de la Riva's notable achievements?

A: Ricardo de la Riva has won numerous titles in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, including World Championships. He is also an inductee in various BJJ Hall of Fames, recognizing his contributions to the sport.

Q: What is the De La Riva guard?

A: The De La Riva guard is a type of open guard in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that was popularized by Ricardo de la Riva. It allows the practitioner to control and sweep opponents effectively and has become a fundamental part of modern BJJ.

Training and Seminars

Q: Where does Ricardo de la Riva train?

A: Ricardo de la Riva runs his own academy where he trains and teaches students. His academy has produced several high-level competitors and is considered one of the top BJJ schools.

Q: Does Ricardo de la Riva offer seminars?

A: Yes, Ricardo de la Riva offers seminars both nationally and internationally. These seminars are highly sought after for their in-depth instruction on the De La Riva guard and other techniques.

Legacy and Influence

Q: What is Ricardo de la Riva's impact on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

A: Ricardo de la Riva has had a lasting impact on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, particularly through the development and popularization of the De La Riva guard. His techniques have been adopted by practitioners at all levels, from beginners to world champions.

Q: How has the De La Riva guard evolved over the years?

A: The De La Riva guard has seen numerous variations and adaptations since its inception. It remains a staple in the BJJ community and is continually being refined by practitioners worldwide.