Daniel Gracie

Brickhouse BJJ and MMA Academy in Philly

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2012-04-11T13:40:39-04:00

I'm building my BJJ academy in Philly. Brick by brick. The same way I build champions. Check out the Facebook page for the academy and the website. Click on the links.

Renzo Gracie Pittsburgh

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2012-03-10T15:09:21-05:00

Join me in April for two weeks of intense Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training at Renzo Gracie Pittsburgh. I'll be the guest professor there for two weeks and I want to see everyone on the mats! Contact the academy for more info!

Do What You Love Video

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2012-03-02T13:39:01-05:00

Countdown to Brasil

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-12-02T21:14:47-05:00

Under two weeks to go. My students in Brasil are ready. The Team is ready. BJJ and MMA in Brasil will never be the same!

Daniel Gracie Team

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-11-15T21:11:09-05:00

Next month I'll be back in Brasil and I'm prepping my team to be ready. This will be the time to lay the foundation. Daniel Gracie Team is taking over. Get ready.

MMA UK Blog ONLINE! The Fight, The Call, MORE!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-10-19T19:17:09-04:00

Read my blog here on MMA UK Blog! Read all about the fight, the call and more!

MYO-T12 Sponsors Me and YOU Save!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-10-20T10:25:35-04:00

MYO-T12 has made the cut! Literally. This supplement allowed me to cut to 185 and to be in the best shape of my life! Photos don't lie! Check these out... But first, let's get to the deal. Use the coupon code GRACIE at check out and SAVE $20! Go to their website and get MYO-T12 for yourself!

That's Fighting

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-10-17T12:35:22-04:00

It was another great fight and I am standing proud. I felt great at 185 and this is my weight class. I will be the next 185 Champion!

Great Weigh-In and MYO-T12 Press!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-10-14T18:04:15-04:00

I weighed in at 185.5 - ready for my debut fight at 185 tomorrow night in Bellator 54. Watch my fight LIVE on spike.com. The preliminary fights start at 7pm. I also want to thank MYO-T12 for the amazing press today. Check out the press release here: DanielGraciePressRelease

Back from Brasil

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-10-12T13:22:07-04:00

It was an awesome training camp and I am back in the US ready for my fight on Saturday. Feeling great at 185 and ready to get in the cage and fight.

MYO-T12

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-10-04T14:29:51-04:00

I can't say enough about this supplement. It has made it possible for me to drop 20 pounds while retaining, even building more muscle and strength. My new weight division is 185. This was no easy weight cut. MYO-T12 is an incredible supplement that works with my body naturally. I have never felt stronger, fitter or faster. You gotta try it! Click here to see their site.

Seminars in Sao Paulo

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-09-27T21:28:43-04:00

It's been a great homecoming to Sao Paulo. My students and all of their students are keeping the Gracie name held in the highest regard. My training continues, focusing on BJJ. It's a couple weeks until my first fight at 185 in Bellator 54 on October 15th in Atlantic City. I'm ready. Click here to read my blog on MMA UK Blog!

MMA UK Blog and Brasil

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-09-20T22:51:03-04:00

The training here is perfect. I feel ready for my fight today. The weight cut is going great. Great food and coconut water everyday. Running on the beach. It's incredible. In my blog there's more click here to read it.

Training in Brasil

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-09-12T19:17:13-04:00

These two weeks have been amazing. It was a hard choice to leave my family in the US to come here, but you have to give to get. This is the way of the Universe. If you want something, you had better be prepared to give up something. So, I have four more weeks here. This is the time to make the most of it. My first fight at 185 is on October 15th and I have to be ready for anything! And I will be!!!

MMA UK Blog is Online!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-09-06T22:58:05-04:00

Definitely check out this latest installment of the Diary of... Daniel Gracie. Click here to read!

Gordo, Paulo and Brasil

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-09-01T00:26:49-04:00

This is the dream team. Many thanks to my team here in Brasil. The training at Gordo's is amazing. The best of the best are here. Everyone preparing for fights. Everyone focused. The functional training with Paulo Caruso is incredibly tough! And today was a light day! Can't wait till tomorrow!

Back to Basics and MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-08-31T09:58:04-04:00

I'm back in Rio. Back to me. Training for my fight in Bellator on October 15th. I got six weeks to take up a level or two. This is the place to do it! Read about my journey here.

Fights Past and Future

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-08-26T20:27:00-04:00

Kind of like those Christmas ghosts that come. I've been spending time thinking about some of my past fights. The highs and lows. On the mat, in the ring and in the cage. These are the experiences that have made me the fighter I am today. And I've been thinking about my future. Those fights that are coming up. Especially my fight in Bellator on October 15th. My preparation thus far has been tough. Now, my focus has narrowed to where there are no longer distractions. Only the goal is visible. Time for another level. I've got a lot of fights yet to come.

MMA UK Blog - Carlos Gracie

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-08-11T10:56:55-04:00

This week the Diary of Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog pays homage to Carlos Gracie. Click here to read!

MMA UK Blog - Ultimate Absolute

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-08-03T21:18:13-04:00

If you don't know, I'm back. This past Saturday I competed in the Ultimate Absolute NYC. Read my blog on MMA UK Blog here!

Ultimate Absolute NYC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-08-02T11:37:41-04:00

It felt great to be back on the tatame. The desire to compete is back. Gi and No-Gi. I'll be fighting MMA alongside gi and no-gi competitions.

MMA UK Blog - Saturday's Competition!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-07-27T20:09:41-04:00

Read my blog on MMA UK here!

Training For Saturday

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-07-26T22:42:55-04:00

Took a challenge with one weeks notice. Haven't competed in six years. I am ready!

I AM IN ANGER MGMT MMA

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-07-21T18:46:16-04:00

It's a bold statement. Hence the capital letters. I've always been someone who practices what I preach. Now's more than ever. I've joined the squad at Anger Management MMA. This is my manager. It's a whole new day. Let's fight!

Diary of Daniel Gracie

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-07-18T20:00:17-04:00

Read this week's Diary of Daniel Gracie. Only available on MMA UK Blog. Click here to read!

BJJ Seminar and Camp in Brasil!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-07-15T10:34:13-04:00

Join me in September for a very important BJJ seminar with over 100 of my students and top level Black Belts. This is an opportunity not to be missed. After the seminar, our group will train BJJ in a beach paradise. A week of specialized BJJ training with me in Sao Paulo, Brasil. Email me for more details and how to sign up.

Do You Need Anger Mgmt?

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-07-05T23:17:56-04:00

Maybe you do? If you're like me and like to fight, then I suggest that you check out Anger Mgmt MMA - my new MMA management venture. Already have a tough group of fighters. These are the kind of fighters who don't turn down fights, but rather take on whoever whenever. They fight to live and live to fight!

MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-06-24T10:21:45-04:00

Read this week's Diary of Daniel Gracie. Click here!

MMA?

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-05-30T12:13:31-04:00

Another blog post on MMA UK Blog. Click here to read it!

BJJ and MMA Insight

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-06-06T12:12:08-04:00

Check out this week's blog post on MMA UK Blog. Click here to read it!

MMA Blog on MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-06-15T12:10:54-04:00

Read this week's MMA insight by none other than me! Click here to read it!

Seminar at Silvaback Fitness

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-06-23T12:04:58-04:00

Join me July 10th, 2011 from 1:00 until 3:00 as I teach an amazing BJJ seminar. For more details email Seth at CrossFitRumble@hotmail.com or call him at 508-930-0694 or visit his site by clicking here!

MMA UK Blog Update

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-05-11T18:27:50-04:00

Click here to read this week's Diary of Daniel Gracie.

What Happened To MMA?

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-05-13T18:17:15-04:00

My student, Kexada, came all the way from Brazil for a fight. His opponent backed out. Not for an injury, but because he didn't want to fight against Kexada. The matchmaker lined up two more opponents. They also backed out after seeing Kexada's fights on YouTube. What is happening to MMA when fighters don't want to fight? Now, Kexada is looking to fight in June. He has had to re-arrange his life because his opponents have no idea what MMA is all about!

Kexada Here To Fight

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-05-06T18:16:29-04:00

My student from Brazil, Kexada, is here to train for his fight May 20th. Keep it locked to know more!

MMA UK Blog Rant on The Biz of MMA

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-05-20T18:12:10-04:00

Check out this week's read on MMA Uk Blog! Click here to read!

Article on LowKick.com

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-05-04T10:59:54-04:00

Thanks to Anton for the interview. Read it here!

MMA Training at Gracie Stamford

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-27T09:18:24-04:00

I started my own MMA training here at the Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Word is getting out and more of my students are showing up. The guys from NYC, the guys from Costa Rica and soon, my student Kexada from Brazil. Check back for updates.

May 4th UPDATE: MMA UK Blog - Diary of Daniel Gracie

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-05-03T09:16:53-04:00

This week's must read: MMA in Japan and Akira Maeda. Click here to read the article on MMA UK Blog. Update May 4, 2011: MMA-Japan.com has reprinted the article I wrote for MMA UK Blog about JMMA, PRIDE Rules, Respect and The Gracie Family in Japan. It will be an honor for me to fight in Japan! Read the article and check out their site here!

MMA UK Blog - Diary of Daniel Gracie

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-25T19:14:56-04:00

Be sure to read this week's Diary of Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog. Click here to read it!

Highlight Video from Zombie Prophet

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-24T21:54:22-04:00

I really can't say thank you enough to my friend, Zombie Prophet. An awesome highlight video that you gotta see. Check it out here. Be sure to go and find out more about Zombie Prophet and Iron Forges Iron.

Daniel Gracie by Zombie Prophet IronForgesIron.com by zpzp420

FIGHT! Daniel Gracie T-Shirts!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-20T18:44:53-04:00

The Daniel Gracie FIGHT! t-shirt is here! Contact us to order yours today! $19.99!

WWE and MMA

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-14T18:09:15-04:00

After training today with Doc (Dr. Carlon Colker) at Peak Wellness, who was next in line? TRIPLE H. WWE Superstar. He's a very cool dude. Here's a pic!

John's Boxing Gym and Kwame Asante

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-08T14:32:40-04:00

Another super tough training with Kwame Asante. Working on movement. Footwork. Head movement. What's that famous quote... "Float like a butterfly..." Muhammed Ali knew exactly what to do to be champion. Now, I need to take a page from that book and apply it to MMA. Thanks!

All American Athletes & MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-11T14:23:12-04:00

It was a tough training with Timothy at All American Athletes. Using the Vertimax really brings it to a whole other level. Also, be sure to check out this week's Diary of Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog. Click here to read!

Training with Doc at Peak Wellness

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-12T14:20:20-04:00

Doc (Dr. Carlon Colker) brought out the big guns today. It was a long weekend and we hit it hard. Cardio, explosion training, weights and more. Check out the video for more!

Monday - Day of Fury and Possibility

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-04T11:04:41-04:00

It's here. Monday. The day. My new training regimen begins. Explosion training. Sparring. Serious training. I'm entering a new division. 185. Middleweight. I've fought as a Heavyweight. I've fought as a Light Heavyweight. Now is the time for me to break it down to the essential me. The new me. Casting off the extra layers and training to my core. This is it. The time is now. Ikemen is here.

Training Strategy

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-04-01T10:53:50-04:00

These past few days, I've reflected on the fight and my preparation. Vision is always 20/20 when looking back. Now, there's no time to look back. I'm looking for my next fight. There's no time to sit and philosophize. Keep it locked each week for a video, each week for my Diary of on MMA UK Blog, each week for my News updates, each week for photos and more. The Return of Ikemen. The time is now.

Training at RGA NYC and RGA Stamford

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-29T00:28:02-04:00

Like I said, today is a fresh start. I trained at Renzo Gracie BJJ Academy in New York City and in Stamford, CT today. No Gi and Gi. It was a great day. Now, there's no looking back. Get ready. It's a whole new division!

Split Decision

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-27T19:07:07-04:00

Last night's fight was a war. A war with myself. The only thing that pushed me in that fight was my heart. My body and mind were lagging far behind. The sensation was that my body was not my own. I make no excuses. I lost. This is a new day. I am on my way home to be with my family and my team. Tomorrow I train. Tomorrow is a fresh start. I have big plans. There is no stopping me. Thank you to all the fans, friends, family.

Press Release Thanks to Tri Star Martial Arts!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-22T11:24:22-04:00

Click here to see a press release sent in to the Advocate of Eldersburg & Sykesville by friend Keith Thompson of Tri-Star Martial Arts. Thanks Keith!

Weigh-In 205.2... Buffet Afterwards!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-25T23:44:05-04:00

Here's a photo from today's weigh-in. I tipped the scales at 205.2. After I hit the buffet, I broke the scale! Ready for tomorrow!

Thanks to WREG TV!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-25T20:46:53-04:00

It was an honor and pleasure to be interviewed along side Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney. Thanks very much to WREG TV 3 out of Memphis for a great interview! Watch it here.

Hotel Today, TV Tomorrow...

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-24T21:00:03-04:00

Arrived at the hotel today. Happy to be here and get settled. Already checked out the cage and the venue - very cool. I have an early morning interview tomorrow on one of the local stations - WREG CBS 3 TV Memphis. Excited to say that I'll be interviewed along with Bjorn Rebney, CEO of Bellator. Tune in!

Bellator LHW Tournament Starts Saturday

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-23T14:24:04-04:00

It's all come to this. The start of the tournament. I'll be heading to Mississippi soon for the first round of the Bellator Light Heavyweight Tournament at Harrah's Tunica in Mississippi aired LIVE on MTV2 starting at 7pm. My training and my team have brought me to this point. I step in the cage and it's on. Let's go. WAR!

Peak Wellness and Dr. Colker

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-18T14:20:53-04:00

If you want to get stronger and more explosive, then you need to learn the right exercises. I've been training with Dr. Colker at Peak Wellness and I've never felt better. Click here to see the site and check it out for yourself!

Diary of... Daniel Gracie: Fighter Before The Fight

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-21T14:19:46-04:00

Here's this week's Diary of... Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog. Click here to read it!

Training Intensifies and Becomes More Concentrated

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-09T09:06:36-05:00

I'm getting closer to the start of the Light Heavyweight Tournament in Bellator on MTV2. My focus has narrowed and my team and I are discussing strategies. More work in less time. This is the time to hone my skills and sharpen the sword!

Bellator on MTV2

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-11T09:05:01-05:00

This is the night to watch some great MMA fights! Saturday nights belong to Bellator on MTV2. Become a fan and see what these guys are all about!

Diary of... Daniel Gracie: Money, Power, MMA - Where Do You Stand?

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-15T09:03:13-04:00

This past weekend saw some major changes in MMA. Here's what I had to say about it on MMA UK Blog.

Tough Training This Week and Next

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-03T11:26:20-05:00

I'm back from Costa Rica. Had an excellent time there. Trained hard and had fun. The first Daniel Gracie BJJ Camp was a huge success and the students all had a great time. Check out the website for the camp and the Flickr page for the camp to see all the awesome photos. Now it's back to work. The end of this week and the next are pretty busy. I'll be working with Dr. Colker of Peak Wellness, training with Kwame Asante at John's Boxing Gym, sparring with Team Renzo Gracie and doing padwork at Sityodtong with Kru Mark Della Grotte and at Pro Martial Arts Academy with Tim Barchard. If you want to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Karate, MMA... be sure to check out these academies where I'm training for the upcoming Bellator Light Heavyweight Tournament. If you want to be in the best shape of your life, check out Dr. Colker.

Diary of... Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-14T11:24:02-05:00

Here's the next installment of my weekly blog. This one is all about Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in MMA. Read it here!

Diary of... Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-21T11:21:37-05:00

Here it is, the next installment. This time I'm here in paradise to train for my upcoming fight and to do the first ever Daniel Gracie BJJ Camp in Costa Rica. Read my Diary of.. Daniel Gracie here!

Diary of... Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-01T11:18:49-05:00

This one is gonna raise some eyebrows. Here's what I have to say about loyalty and teams in MMA. Available each week on MMA UK Blog, my Diary of... Daniel Gracie - read it here!

Diary of... Daniel Gracie on MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-03-07T11:16:43-05:00

Each week I have the pleasure of writing an article for MMA UK Blog. Here is the latest installment. This one is about the past Bellator event premiere on MTV 2, my training and more. Read it here!

MMA and BJJ Training

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-25T22:40:35-05:00

It's been great training here. This is how I always think of training. Out in the sun, working all elements of my game. It's been great. Check out a couple pics!

Training in Paradise

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-22T00:32:19-05:00

It was a much needed break from the freezing cold temperatures and snow of Connecticut. I moved my training camp to where the sun and sand are. So far been here a week and am still training like a maniac! This upcoming week, a few of my friends/students/trainers get here. It'll really get interesting! Keep it locked for pics and info!

MMA Training at Pro Martial Arts Academy

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-12T19:52:24-05:00

Many thanks to Tim Barchard and Kevin Landry of Pro Martial Arts Academy for the excellent training, to Rick Hawn for the awesome Judo seminar, to Marv for working on my shoulder and to all the students for the great training. See you all soon!

Bellator MMA at John's Boxing Gym

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-09T19:01:30-05:00

It was an intense, four hour long training and filming session today at John's Boxing Gym. Thanks to everyone at the gym for accommodating us. Thanks to Kwame Asante and John's Boxing Gym. Thanks to Danny Morales for introducing me to Kwame and John's. And thanks to Bellator MMA for a great day! Can't wait to start watching on March 5th on MTV2. But even more than that, I can't wait to FIGHT in the Light Heavyweight Tournament!

John's Boxing Gym

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-04T14:51:11-05:00

This was me after a recent training with Kwame Asante at John's Boxing Gym in the South Bronx. Yes, I am exhausted. Mentally as well as physically. Kwame is a veritable font of knowledge and experience. Learning from him is an honor. Training at John's is a privilege.

Weekly Blog on MMA UK

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-07T12:01:52-05:00

So, I've been asked to write a weekly blog for MMA UK. Click here for the first installment. Be sure to check it out!

Interview on Iron Forges Iron - Thanks to Zombie Prophet!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-02-03T09:46:35-05:00

I want to sincerely thank Zombie Prophet for his amazing highlight video and the opportunity for an interview on Iron Forges Iron. If you don't know either Zombie Prophet's work or the Iron Forges Iron website, check 'em out NOW!

BJJ Training at Pro Martial Arts Academy

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-28T10:33:41-05:00

Many thanks to Tim Barchard of Pro Martial Arts Academy for all of his help! Tim held pads, trained with me and he and his wife Laura were excellent hosts! Thanks for the great training and great hospitality! Here's a pic of us after a tough BJJ training. See you guys on the mats!

Technical Training with Mark Della Grotte

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-27T10:29:45-05:00

The technical seminar by Mark Della Grotte of Sityodtong Boston was incredible! Thanks so much to Kru Mark! My MMA knowledge is a different game now thanks to Mark's insight! Click here to see a few pics from the technical training seminar.

Marvin Wargo!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-25T10:18:49-05:00

The exclamation mark says it all. Big thanks to Marvin Wargo! After intense training, you need to put yourself through more pain in order to push yourself further the following day. Marvin made it possible for me to train harder each day at both Sityodtong and Pro Martial Arts Academy! Thanks Marvin. And if you don't believe the 'pain' part... check out these pics.

Thanks to Hoy Newspaper

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-27T17:18:12-05:00

Check out this link to read my article in Hoy newspaper.

Sityodtong and Pro Martial Arts Academy

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-26T19:48:41-05:00

Do you want some of the best MMA training available? Then get on board with Mark Della Grotte and Tim Barchard. So far I've trained Muay Thai, MMA, BJJ. Also we sparred, hit pads and a lot of tough workouts. This is serious MMA training. Mark and Tim are preparing me for the Bellator Light Heavyweight Tournament. It's war. It's on! Want to see a few pics from training? Click here!

Rest Day for Next Week

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-23T22:49:12-05:00

Today I gave myself a rest day. Tomorrow, I'll be training at Renzo Gracie Academy in JOhn Danaher's class and then heading up to New Hampshire and Boston. It's gonna be a tough week of intense training with Mark Della Grotte and Tim Barchard. Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA all week. Sparring, pad work, rolling, workout and so much more. Keep it locked for pics and updates! The Bellator Tournament begins the last week of March. This is it. The time is now.

Workouts, BJJ and Boxing

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-21T20:59:58-05:00

Spent the last couple days doing tough workouts with Dr. Colker at Peak Wellness, boxing at John's Gym with Kwame Assante and rolling with all the students at Renzo Gracie Stamford. MMA requires total dedication and focus. It's a fantastic lifestyle for those who respect their body, mind and spirit. Lately there's been an even bigger push to bring MMA to NYC. This couldn't be a better idea at a better time. MMA attracts athletes and scholars alike. Do what you can to Legalize MMA in NYC today!

Boxing at John's Gym

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-19T17:35:28-05:00

It was a tough training today at John's Boxing Gym with Kwame Asante. Hit pads with a few different coaches. All around great training. Took a few pics. Check out Danny Morales and Juan Barrantes.

Stronger Thanks to Peak Wellness

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-18T13:14:09-05:00

It was a quick appointment with more amazing results. Dr. Colker worked his knowledge and now I'm feeling even stronger. Check out their site to learn more about Peak Wellness and what they can do for you!

RGA NYC Training

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-18T00:25:20-05:00

Todays class at Renzo Gracie Academy in NYC was tough - as usual. Everybody was on the mats training hard. Most of us have fights on the horizon, so we're all focused. Tomorrow, I'll be at Renzo Gracie Academy in Stamford to roll with the students and then do Muay Thai, boxing and padwork with Danny Morales. Afterwards, back to Peak Wellness! MMA. It's a great job!

Theme Song by Pow Tunes

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-16T15:49:38-05:00

The Daniel Gracie website theme song. A new addition thanks to our friends at Pow Tunes. Like what you hear? Then check out the powtunes website!

Peak Wellness

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-13T21:44:21-05:00

The name says it all. And that is all you could ask for! Doc Colker is part genius and part mad scientist! I have never felt better before and after training. Here are a couple pics. And, yeah, that really is Shaquille O'Neal's sneaker.

Legalize the Empire Interview

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-13T10:46:44-05:00

Make your voice heard to bring MMA to NYC now!

Renzo Gracie Academy NYC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-10T18:12:35-05:00

Training today at Renzo Gracie Academy was a packed house of UFC and MMA fighters. With Renzo teaching us, it was an awesome class! A few of us in class in no particular order: Rafael 'Sapo' Natal, Rolles Gracie, Igor Gracie, Gregor Gracie, Roger Gracie, Mark Cerrone, Ricardo 'Cachorrao' Almeida, David Branch, Georges St. Pierre, Bruno Tostes, Erik Owings, Karel Pravec, Amal Easton and so many more.

Couple More Photos

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-10T15:57:30-05:00

Thanks to Anton Gurevich and LowKick.com, I have a couple more photos. Check 'em out.

Old School BJJ Videos

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-09T18:08:14-05:00

Thanks to my friend, Zombie Prophet, I was able to add a few BJJ videos to my site.

Feeling Like a Kid

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-09T14:44:34-05:00

My training has been great. Today I re-worked my schedule and fit in a lot more training than I thought possible. It could be that I've also re-worked my diet. This has given me loads more energy. Carbs and protein eaten together for breakfast and lunch, sensible snacks (almonds, protein bars, bananas) throughout the day and salad and protein for dinner. No carbs after 6pm. Not only am I maintaining weight, I'm maintaining a level of energy that allows me to train as much as I want.

Seminar Todat at Renzo Gracie CT

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-08T09:16:09-05:00

Be sure to come to Renzo Gracie CT in West Haven, CT for my Gi and No Gi seminar that starts at 2pm! This is an official Renzo Gracie affiliate academy run by Renzo Gracie Black Belt Mark Cerrone. Click on this link to learn more!

Interview on El Octagono

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-07T22:14:55-05:00

Check out my interview with El Octagono. Click this link!

New Year - New Training

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2011-01-07T17:38:19-05:00

This past week has been a bit of an experiment. I've been doing a strength type training under the expertise of a professional. For now, I'll keep it a bit vague not to release too much info too soon. What I can say is this, after 8 rounds today I was ready for 8 more.

The Ultimate Foundation for MMA

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-30T18:08:25-05:00

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The Ultimate Foundation for MMA.
Daniel Gracie
December 30, 2010

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The Gentle Art. A martial art that traces its roots over millennia. Throughout the vast lands of Asia, from monks to Samurai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has a noble and important lineage.

Fast forward to the early 20th Century when Mitsuyo Maeda travelled to Brazil and taught this ancient art to the Gracie Family - Father Gastão and sons Carlos, Helio, George, Gastão and Oswaldo. As the brothers put forth the famous 'Gracie Challenge' willing participants came from far and wide to test themselves against these young men. Carlos had been the original student of Mr. Maeda and the teacher to all of his brothers. The 'Gracie Challenge' met with great success. The challengers came and were submitted. Not girth, nor strength, nor size could defend the submissions by the Gracie brothers. No other art or sport or technique could match the depth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Nothing riveled the effectiveness and speed of the Gracie brothers' skill in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

This truth was to be tested once again in a fledging event called the UFC. Royce Gracie was the one chosen by the family to fight in this new event. With no rules, no time limits and no pre conceptions, this was a true test of which art form would reign superior. As illustrated in the earliest UFC events, the Gracie style of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu trumped all other arts. It was truly a watershed moment.

Now to today. Fighting organizations have sprung up everywhere. The UFC is a powerhouse. And Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu remains the go to art form for MMA fighters. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the ultimate foundation for today's Mixed Martial Arts fighter. In no other art or sport or technique does one find the depth and wealth of knowledge and possibilities as exists in BJJ. With a standing component featuring several take downs and submissions, with a ground game that has no equal, BJJ is the only complete art for MMA.

As today's MMA fighter knows, the rules have changed drastically from the earliest no holds barred events. In these earliest events, BJJ was unmatched. Up kicks from the guard were allowed. The fight could be started immediately on the ground. While fighting on the ground, the fight was never stopped and forced to stand up. Perhaps these drastic rules changes were in direct response to the superiority of BJJ? Today's MMA fight is expected to be a battle standing. Today's MMA fighter is expected to trade blows. While another art would've withered and died in the face of these changes, BJJ has evolved and come back stronger. This stand up game has only heightened the importance of having your base in BJJ. As a practitioner of BJJ, you have infinite possibilities to not only defend strikes, but to thwart these attacks and submit your opponent. Removing yourself from these blows, the BJJ fighter often emerges from the bout unscathed and victorious.

To further emphasize the incomparable validity of BJJ, think back to the fight between Chael Sonen and Anderson Silva. Sonen, an MMA fighter with a foundation in wrestling. Silva, an MMA fighter with a foundation in Muay Thai. This bout was hard fought to say the least. Silva was taking many blows from Sonen and at one point it looked as if Sonen would be the victor. With only seconds left in the fight, Silva went to the triangular choke. Finishing his opponent and winning the fight. Only with BJJ could you pull out a victory in this way.

In another well known fight, Minotauro Nogueira submitted behemoth Bob Sapp by arm bar after a true war. Sapp dwarfed Minotauro in size. The match up was skill versus girth. Sapp dominated the fight with his size and strength, throwing Minotauro around the ring like a rag doll. Exhausted and losing the fight, Minotauro saw his opportunity. He swept Sapp and got a beautiful arm bar from side control. No other Martial Art could produce this result against an opponent with such incredible size and strength.

My cousin and mentor, Renzo Gracie, denies no challengers. He will fight any and all comers. This philosophy is at the root of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He defends our family's art with a warrior's spirit. Fighting against larger opponents, Renzo proves the effectiveness of BJJ time and time again. UFC 6 Champion Oleg Taktarov was chosen as Renzo's opponent in MARS (Martial Arts Reality Superfight) in the mid 90's. Taktarov was a Russian Sambo fighter and had a 70 pound weight advantage. During the fight, Renzo attempted a takedown that was stopped by Taktarov. Immediately pulling guard, Renzo was in his element on the mat. Taktarov approached to ground and pound. Not missing a beat, Renzo up kicked his opponent, thwarting the strikes from the ground and pound. This allowed Renzo to throw the deciding KO and end the fight. Another example, is his fight against Maurice Smith which was won by arm bar in the first minutes of the fight. His bout against Wataru Sakata was also a victory for him by arm bar. Both of these fights were in Rings - King of Kings in Japan. Both opponents have a minimum of a 60 pound weight advantage. Neither could defend the technique of BJJ. In his fight against Pat Miletich, Renzo won by guillotine. The fight began standing and ended standing, with Renzo jumping onto Miletich and capturing him in a guillotine. His record goes on to show many other victories by submission. He is a true BJJ and MMA pioneer and legend.

As the sport of MMA evolves from it's earliest beginnings, so too does BJJ. This Martial Art is like no other. In no other art do you find such a flexible base. BJJ is for all sizes, styles, body types and abilities. As is the basis of our philosophy, we welcome all. If this is not the best base for MMA, then I don't know what is.

After Training at Renzo Gracie Stamford

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-29T20:00:22-05:00

Surprised that I still had the energy to train after my fight with the snowman, I headed over to Renzo Gracie Stamford for some open mat training. My MMA manager Ali came up from NYC and we all had a great training. Neiman Gracie is training like I've never seen! Everybody looked great!

After Training at RGA NYC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-30T17:57:06-05:00

It was a great training with Rolles Gracie, Ali of Dominance MMA Management and Roger Ambrosi. We checked out the 1st floor of the newly expanded and renovated Renzo Gracie Academy in NYC. Amazing! Ring, Cage, more Mats. Impressive. The best place to train MMA!

BJJ Article Posted on MMA UK Blog

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-30T17:25:02-05:00

Here's a link to the article I wrote. Aundre Jacobs has a great blog about MMA. Check it out!

Show in the Snow

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-29T19:47:12-05:00

Afternoon break after and before training. Tough fight, but I came out with the win.

Interview on LowKick

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-29T15:38:22-05:00

Thanks to Anton Gurevich for another great interview!

Daniel Gracie talks Bellator, Georges St. Pierre and Frankie Edgar (Exclusive Interview)
Posted By Anton Gurevich UFC News

BJJ maverick Daniel Gracie took time off his training schedule, to share thoughts with LowKick.com about his plans for 2011, training Georges St. Pierre and Frankie Edgar for their title defenses and much more. Daniel Gracie was recently signed up for Bellator's first ever Light Heavyweight Tournament, which will take place next spring. Currently holding a professional Mixed Martial Arts record of 5-2, Daniel Gracie is coming off a convincing submission victory over the Swede Martin Wojcik at IFC: Genesis event, which took place last November in Tel-Aviv, Israel. Daniel Gracie runs Renzo Gracie BJJ Academy in Connecticut (103 Atlantic Street in downtown Stamford). You can follow Daniel on Twitter @DanielGracie or his personal Facebook profile. Hey Daniel, it's great to have you back on LowKick.com. Congratulations for signing with Bellator. How are you doing these days? I'm training like a maniac. And I'm so happy to sign with Bellator. I'm not gonna be waiting for UFC to call me. I'm 38 years old, so I can't be fooling around. Bellator are a big promotion. Getting into their tournament is a fantastic opportunity for me. So I took it right away. Yes. They also recently announced a deal with MTV2. Exactly. That's another reason behind signing for them. They got that great TV deal, which can provide me a really good exposure. It's my chance to show all the people how good I am. That ideal for any MMA fighter. Obviously it's a tournament format. Which means that you'll be fighting quite often. How do you feel about this? It will be like, fighting almost every three months. I think that every event should be like that. I don't know why people want to take 4 or 5 months off. Only if you're hurt, you want to take such a long time off. Like I said, at my age I'm not here to play games. I want to fight. And Bellator are perfect for this. Do you have an exclusive contract with Bellator? Can you fight outside the promotion? One of the reasons I signed for Bellator is that they are very flexible with their contracts. It's only exclusive in the US. So I can fight outside US in any promotion if I want to. Only during the tournament I can't fight for other promotions. The tournament will be March, April and May. I would like to take you back to your fight at IFC: Genesis against Martin Wojcik. How you felt coming to this fight, especially after 4 years off fighting? I didn't spend these four years for nothing. I trained hard all that time and was in a great shape. I was a little bit nervous before entering the cage, but as soon as I began to sweat, and the blood was flowing… boom. I was not nervous anymore, and felt at home. This event in Israel really reminded me of PRIDE. The organization and the environment was really good, so it really was a good way for a comeback. Did you have any injuries after this fight? Because if I remember well, you were cut during that fight. No, no injuries at all. The cut I got was from a glove. It was not even a punch. I was in great shape, and my body reacted well for the fight. I weighed 206 at the weigh-ins, and right now I'm walking around 218. So it's easy for me to keep this weight. I wanted to ask you about Georges St. Pierre. He trains at Renzo Gracie's Academy. Can you talk about how he improved his BJJ game, and how he's now as a fighter? Since Georges's training with us at the academy, his BJJ improved greatly. Same with Frankie Edgar. To tell you the truth, I can't see Georges losing his title in the near future. He's a very well rounded fighter. The only thing I thought he has something to learn at – is his BJJ game, and he closed that gap thanks to a very hard work. He's a complete fighter now. I heard he's going to fight Jake Shields next. Jake is a very good guy and in my opinion one of the best submission fighters in the game. But Georges improved so much, especially his submission defense. So I think Georges St. Pierre can go out there and win against anyone with great Jiu-Jitsu. If the fight between Georges St. Pierre and Jake Shields goes to the ground, what will be Georges' goal? Will he be aggressive, or just trying to defend against Jake Shields's submissions? I think that his goal should be to defend Jake Shields's Jiu-Jitsu. And he can do it. If I was Georges St. Pierre I would not go into exchanging my Jiu-Jitsu skills against Jake Shields. Shields is a complete fighter in terms of Jiu-Jitsu. What do you think about the attitude of some of the Cesar Gracie fighters? Fighters like the Diaz brothers, for instance. Oh, to tell you the truth, I love it. And you know why? Because these guys are real fighters. They have a hot blood, always aggressive and ready to put up a good fight. When you get inside the cage against them, you better to be prepared for war. I like their personality. They are for real, and will do anything for victory. This strong "street fighter personality" only makes the fights more exciting. They will do anything for their team, and it's simply great in my opinion. What's your prediction for the fight between Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard? It's gonna be a great fight. I think Gray Maynard has a chance to win, but that does not gonna happen. Frankie is in such a good shape. He's well prepared – so I think it will be an easy fight, actually. The only skill Maynard has is his wrestling, but I think that Frankie Edgar learned perfectly how to use his skills inside the cage. Maynard may be a better Wrestler, but Frankie knows how to use it, and he utilizes his skills better. Just like Georges St. Pierre. Koscheck maybe on paper is better than Georges, but Georges is smarter on using his skills in MMA. That's why I say that Frankie Edgar's wrestling is better for MMA than Maynard's. What are your goals for 2011? I want to become a Champion, to have a belt. But if I don't get a belt in 2011, at least many people will hear about me. My goal is to be a Champion, but I also want people to see my work. I want to put great fights for the fans in 2011.

Boxing at John's Gym

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-28T14:00:18-05:00

Great training today with Kwame Assante and Danny Morales at John's Gym!

BJJ and MMA at RGA Stamford

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-27T21:39:34-05:00

I opened the academy and called it 'cabin fever' training. With a blizzard in CT, I knew the students would need some time on the mats. After a great training, Danny Morales and I did five rounds of boxing and four rounds of kicking. Did I mention how my legs feel like they weigh 300 pounds?

Boxing Day! Literally

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-26T19:33:43-05:00

So after a day of way too much food I needed to burn off those Christmas calories. Seeing as how I love to workout in the snow, I did ten three minute rounds of shadow boxing. Snowing. Actually more like blizzarding. That's what I'm talking about!

Merry Christmas!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-25T21:25:55-05:00

I spent the day with family and friends. Presents and food. Lots of stories and bad jokes! It was an awesome holiday. I wish a Happy Holiday to everybody! All the best to you!

Boxing in the South Bronx

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-23T09:48:30-05:00

When friend Danny Morales offered to take me to his boxing gym and meet his trainer, I jumped at the chance. I read a lot about his trainer and the gym. It looked like the best place to learn the art of boxing. And I do mean art. Yesterday's training was like no other. John's Boxing Gym is the real deal located in a tough part of the South Bronx. Kwame Asante is a world renowned trainer. It is an honor to be here! Check out the site of the gym and the article about Kwame by clicking on the names!

Bellator Made The News Official!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-22T19:03:13-05:00

It's set and announced. I'm fighting in the Premier Light Heavyweight Bellator Tournament broadcast Live on MTV2.

Daniel Gracie signs with Bellator and will fight in Season 4 Light Heavyweight Tournament

CHICAGO, Ill. (December 22, 2010) - With a fighting history that can be traced directly back to the origin of mixed martial arts nearly two decades ago, the legendary Gracie family will now bring its unique Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu influenced fighting style to the Bellator cage in 2011. Bellator Fighting Championships announced today the signing of fourth degree BJJ black belt Daniel Gracie to the Season 4 Light Heavyweight Tournament.
Daniel is a cousin to Renzo Gracie, Ralph Gracie, and the late Ryan Gracie. The two-time Jiu-Jitsu World Champion is currently set to enter the next chapter of his professional MMA career in Bellator's first Light Heavyweight Tournament slated for March 2011. Gracie enters the tournament with a professional record of 5-2-1, recently ending a four-year hiatus due to a plaguing elbow injury with a comeback submission victory over Martin Wojcik just 2:17 into the first round.
"The Gracie family has truly influenced MMA as we know it today and I'm proud to say that heritage continues when Daniel steps into the Bellator cage to try to become our Light Heavyweight Champion" said Bellator Chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney. "A Gracie back in the tournament format, is reminiscent of the days when the Gracie's dominated MMA and that's something I'm excited to see".
The decorated submission grappler and PRIDE Fighting Championships veteran has competed primarily in the heavyweight division for much of his career but feels strongly that he will be better than ever at 205 lbs.
"I feel faster and like my technique is better when I fight at light heavyweight. I also feel like my cardio is much improved and I'm much more explosive at 205 lbs.," said Gracie. "I feel like I'm just better all around at light heavyweight."
Signing with Bellator is not only a return to MMA for the submission specialist but also a return to the tournament format for the Gracie family.
"This Bellator tournament is the Gracies getting back to our origins," said Daniel. "The tournament is the way the Gracies got started in MMA. That will give me extra motivation to win this tournament."
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Gracie first began training Jiu-Jitsu at six years of age, eventually earning his black belt under Carlinhos Gracie at the ripe age of 23. Following two world championships in the sport, Gracie decided that he had done all he set out to do in Jiu-Jitsu and set his sights on MMA. Daniel began traveling to the United States to train alongside Renzo Gracie ten years ago and decided to make the move a permanent one in 2004. He currently operates his own Gracie school in Stamford, CT while training to fight out of the Renzo Gracie Academy in New York, New York.
Gracie says that although his eye is on the prize, he's also focused on putting on good fights.
"I'm imagining myself winning this tournament, I have nothing but winning this tournament on my mind right now," said Gracie. "Of course I know that anything can happen in MMA, but one thing I guarantee everyone that tunes in is that I'm going to put on a great show. You can bet on that."

Seminar at Renzo Gracie CT!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-21T21:40:09-05:00

That's Renzo Gracie Connecticut. I'll be teaching a Gi and No Gi seminar at Mark Cerrone's Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in West Haven, CT on Saturday January the 8th 2011. Mark is a Renzo Gracie Black Belt and has been a loyal student of Renzo's for well over sixteen years. Mark is also an excellent training partner and he is always my ride to NYC for training at RGA NYC. (Thanks, Mark!) Be sure to attend this great seminar and learn some new things to raise your Jiu-Jitsu training! Check out this link to Mark's Renzo Gracie Academy and be sure to sign up with the Academy if you live in the area!

Another Great Training at RGA NYC!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-20T21:27:45-05:00

Class with John Danaher today was awesome (as usual)! We all trained super hard and learned some great positions. Thanks to all my training partners (pictured is fellow MMA fighter Jamal Patterson) and my MMA manager, Ali, for a great day. Here are a few cell phone pics...

Great Training!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-17T23:00:25-05:00

It's 11pm and I just finished an awesome training with Danny Morales. We trained after the Jiu-Jitsu classes at Renzo Gracie Stamford. Looking forward to tomorrow. And come to think of it, to next week when I'll be training with Mark Della Grotte at Sityodtong. Thanks, Kru!

Hardcore Training - Time to Focus

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-13T22:48:59-05:00

I've signed and I'm ready to fight. Like I've said, This is it. The time is now. I believe that your future is what you make it. So, I'm gonna make it great. For right now, I'm chillin' and about to watch the Vice Guide on MTV at 11pm. It's a crazy tour through the toughest favelas of Rio de Janeiro to see what the MMA fighters do in order to fight. They gotta fight to fight. This is intense!

Vice Guide to Everything!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-12T20:21:22-05:00

Watch Vice Guide to Everything tomorrow - Monday the 13th - at 11pm on MTV! I give the guys from Vice an MMA tour in one of the roughest favelas in Rio de Janeiro - Complexo do Alemao. If you've seen the news lately, this is the favela that the police have targeted to clean up, resulting in a war. The Vale Tudo fighters have to make it through the war to train and fight. This is intense. Watch!

Big News Coming Soon!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-12T20:20:22-05:00

I have a lot of big news to tell everybody. It'll have to wait till it's official. Keep it locked to know 1st!

BJJ Seminar at Cyclone in Louisiana

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-03T22:30:52-05:00

Heading down South to Luling, Louisiana for some Southern hospitality and serious BJJ training. Thanks to Ricco Rodriguez for setting up this great seminar. See you on the mats at Cyclone BJJ!

RGA Stamford Training

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-06T22:28:35-05:00

A tough training today at Renzo Gracie Academy in Stamford. Everybody is looking tough! Keep training!

Vice Guide Episode Airs Mon Dec 13th at 11 on MTV!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-08T21:58:59-05:00

Check out this clip to see what I showed to the guys from Vice. This is Vale Tudo. This is Rio. This is it.

The Vice Guide to Everything - MTV Shows

Training at Renzo Gracie NYC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-02T12:37:23-05:00

This morning was another great MMA training at Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in NYC. Everybody is training with Sapo (Rafael Sapo Natal) to help him prepare for his upcoming fight in the UFC.

BJJ Seminar with Ricco Rodriguez in LA

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-12-01T11:31:00-05:00

I'm headed to LA Friday. No, not the city of angels - Louisianna! I'm going to be teaching a BJJ seminar at Cyclone Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Ricco Rodriguez's school) on Saturday and Sunday. Ricco is a great friend of the Gracie family. It was this past fight in Israel - the Israel Fighting Championship - where Ricco and I were fighting on the same card. We spoke about the seminar while in Israel and planned it there. If you're in Louisianna, be sure to contact the school at 985-855-0209 to attend this great seminar!

Hybrid and Gracie Stamford - Strength & Jiu-Jitsu!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-29T11:27:49-05:00

It must have been all that turkey! I really felt that I needed an extra workout. Tonite I headed to Hybrid to workout with trainer Tim Burke. As usual, he had an excellent work out planned. After, I felt great and really strong. I headed right to Renzo Gracie Stamford to teach and train in the advanced Jiu-Jitsu class. What a great job!

Day After Thanksgiving at Hybrid

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-26T11:24:08-05:00

Another great training at Hybrid. This is the place to come to get strong!

Back to Hybrid!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-19T18:53:29-05:00

Well, Rob and Tim never said it would be easy! Tonite was no exception. Thanks to Tim for another awesome training. Glad to be back. Hybrid is the best for strength training! You want to get strong? Get to Hybrid!

Renzo Gracie MMA Training - The Best!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-19T10:26:09-05:00

I trained yesterday at Renzo Gracie academy in NYC. The MMA training on Thursdays is really tough. My cousins, Rolles Gracie and Igor Gracie were there (Rolles has a fight coming up in December) and Renzo Gracie black belts Rafael 'Sapo' Natal, Andre Gusmao, Bruno Tostes were training, too (Rafael will be fighting in UFC 124). As always the training was intense and everybody was looking strong. Our MMA manager, Ali of Dominance MMA Management was there, too. Keep it locked to know first when I'll be fighting. So you know, I'm ready!

Vice Guide to Everything - Vale Tudo in Rio

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-17T23:55:49-05:00

Back in April of this year, I was the tour guide to the guys from Vice for their trip to Rio de Janeiro. Cristo Redentor? No. Pao de Açucar? No. Copacabana? No. Where? Complexo do Alemão favela in Rio de Janeiro. Never heard of it? Sure you did. This is the only favela in Rio de Janeiro which the police have not been able to penetrate. It's that serious. And, yes. I brought a bunch of guys with a film crew to see the real Vale Tudo.

The Vice Guide to Everything - MTV Shows

Back at It!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-15T19:34:35-05:00

There's no resting. I was back training at Renzo Gracie Academy today for John Danaher's class. Ricardo Almeida, Frankie Edgar, David Branch, Carlos Cline, Jamal Patterson and so many other Renzo Gracie Team Members were training hard. My manager Ali of Dominance MMA Management was there, too. We're already working on my next fight. Keep it locked here to know first!

That's What I Call A Return!!!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-09T15:51:51-05:00

Daniel Gracie has won his comeback fight by Mata Leao in Round One over opponent Martin Wojcik in the inaugural Israel Fighting Championship event in Tel Aviv, Israel! Way to go Daniel!

Today is the Day!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-09T08:49:46-05:00

Feeling great! Renzo is here! I'm ready! Oh yeah, and check out this interview with MMA Weekly...

Daniel Gracie Looking For Comeback After Four Years Away From MMA
Posted on November 8, 2010 by Damon Martin

When Daniel Gracie steps in to fight Martin Wojcik in Israel on Tuesday it will be the first time in over four years since the jiu-jitsu instructor has competed in MMA. Dealing with some injuries, but always training, Gracie is ready to get back to active competition and it starts with his return to action this week.
Any fighter with the last name Gracie will always have a target on his back, and Daniel Gracie is no exception. Through seven fights, Gracie has faced many fighters with sometimes double and triple his experience in the MMA ring, but he has always stood up to the challenge.
With over four years away from active competition, Gracie is finally ready to get back into MMA, and hopefully make this stay last a long time.
“I fixed all my injuries, I feel healthy and strong,” Gracie told MMAWeekly.com from Israel. “I have been training with some of the best MMA fighters in the sport and I feel I am ready to compete on the highest level.”
While he may not have been in the spotlight of the MMA world, Gracie has been teaching at the Renzo Gracie Academy in Connecticut as well as the main gym in New York City. He’s also sought out one of the best trainers in the world to get him ready for his return to action this week in Israel.
“I have been training at the Sityodtong in Boston with Mark Dellagratte and Tim Barchard,” Gracie commented. “In New Jersey, I train with Kevin Mulhall at The Edge Hoboken, but my main training is at the Renzo Gracie Academy in New York. My physical preparation is at Hybrid Athletics in Stamford, Connecticut.”
Gracie has been hard at work to get back to MMA, and he hopes that once the train gets rolling, it will be hard to stop.
“This is my first step of many, I plan to continue until my body says no more,” he said.
Gracie’s opponent in his return match will be 5-4 fighter Martin Wojcik, who has been a winner in three of his last four bouts. Expecting a tough fight, Gracie has done his research and is ready for whatever happens on Tuesday.
“I have watched a few of his fights, he has a very good base, and heavy kicks and punches,” Gracie said about Wojcik. “But I am ready for whatever.”
As a proud member of the Gracie family, carrying the family’s legacy into 2010 and beyond, Daniel has a very simple message to his opponent and anyone else who opposes him as he returns to full time MMA this year and next.
“I am very proud to represent my family,” Gracie said. “I would die for my name.”
With such strong emotion behind the pride of fighting under the Gracie name, Daniel has a very simple and direct way of predicting his fight against Wojcik on Tuesday in Israel.
“Me winning,” he predicts.
Gracie faces Martin Wojcik under the Israel Fighting Championships (IFC) banner.

Great Weigh In - Guess What I'm Doing Now???

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-08T07:38:49-05:00

I weighed in at 206! Just as we planned. Now, we're all heading to the restaurant. Time to eat!!!

A Blast from the Past

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-05T16:41:30-04:00

This really needs no introduction...

If you like this, go get yourself a copy of Renzo Gracie Legacy!

Low Kick Interview

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-05T13:30:33-04:00

Check out the link to the pre-fight interview from LowKick. The pics are great, too!

Great Training in Tel Aviv, Israel

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-05T02:48:53-04:00

Like I said, I hit the ground running. A pic from my training. Return of Ikemen!

Tel Aviv, Israel - I'm Here!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-04T16:13:00-04:00

It was a great flight from Newark and I'm happy to be here. Gonna hit the ground running. Keep training. This is it. I'm ready!

Busy Week

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-11-03T10:01:53-04:00

My past week was jam packed with training. Tim Barchard of Pro Martial Arts Academy came down from New Hampshire and helped me to train. We sparred at Renzo Gracie Academy here in Stamford with Roger Ambrosi and Neiman Gracie. In addition I was back and forth to New York City and Hoboken more times than I can remember. Training Jiu-Jitsu with Team Renzo Gracie is the best training there is! I was also training my stand-up with Kevin Mulhall from Jersey Fight Club. Kevin teaches at Dave Esposito's academy The Edge Hoboken. If you're interested in learning Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, MMA - be sure to check out all of these places!

Great Training and A Funny Pic!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-27T21:20:44-04:00

It's been a couple tough days of training. Of course, it's been great. I just saw this funny pic and wanted to share it with you. Imagine this. It's my very first Mixed Martial Arts fight. PRIDE 21 in front of 60,000 fans. A packed house and I'm ready to fight professionally for the first time. As I walk to the ring, I look up at the enormous screen flashing my picture. Wait a minute. What is this? It wasn't a tough picture of me training or fighting. It was a picture of me modeling. Are you kidding me? I looked at Renzo and he said that it was the only picture of me that he had. Fala serio! So, the nickname - Ikemen - came from this. Now you know!

Congrats to UFC Fighter Matt Hamill!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-24T23:45:34-04:00

It was awesome watching Matt Hamill fight and win against Tito Ortiz. I trained with Matt and his team - Duff and Shrek - and I felt like family right from the start. Because of this close bond, it was a real honor for me to share my Jiu-Jitsu knowledge with Matt. Team Hammer is a true team and they let you know it - they make you part of it As I watched Matt's fight, I saw some of what we trained. It made me feel great to see Matt's hand raised in victory at the end of the fight. Bruno Tostes, Renzo Gracie team member, black belt and great friend, is a great Jiu-Jitsu teacher for Matt. I am proud to be part of Team Matt 'The Hammer' Hamill! And Matt, thanks for the shout out at the end of the fight!

Great Muay Thai and Wrestling

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-24T21:43:33-04:00

It was awesome training with Dave Esposito and Kevin Mulhall at The Edge Hoboken. I always learn so much from these guys! Thanks! And it was great to train with fellow Renzo Gracie Team Member and UFC fighter David Branch!

RGA NYC Thursday, Muay Thai and Wrestling Friday

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-22T11:59:33-04:00

Training at Renzo Gracie Academy in NYC is always intense. Check out this picture of me and my family after training!

I'll be training with Kevin Mulhall and Dave Esposito today. Muay Thai and wrestling. Keep it locked for more info!

Roundtrip to Tel Aviv or Watch Online?

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-20T22:00:16-04:00

It's a big ticket - about $2300. New York City to Tel Aviv. Of course it would be an honor to fight in front of as many of my fans as possible... If you can't make the fight on November 9th, just order it online for $9.99. Check out the site GoFightLive.tv for all the details!

MMA Training at Renzo Gracie NYC, Ricardo Almeida Tomorrow

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-18T22:18:22-04:00

It was a great MMA training in John Danaher's class today. I rolled and trained with a lot of tough guys from Team Renzo Gracie. Carlos Cline, fresh from his win at Brick City Fighting Championships, Rafael Sapo Natal who's training for his upcoming UFC fight, and a bunch of other guys. Afterwards, we had lunch and talked with Renzo. It was a great day. And now, I've just come back from a swim / workout. The day is never done!!!

Have You Seen This Photo!?

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-14T09:26:59-04:00

MMA, BJJ, Muay Thai with Mark and Tim

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-14T08:53:29-04:00

The training has been intense. Many thanks to Mark DellaGrotte and Tim Barchard for their expertise, time and excellent coaching. Every minute here has been great. And thanks to all the students at Professional Martial Arts Academy for their great training. And thanks to Team Sityodtong USA for their great training! Here's one pic. Check out my Training Photos Page for more!

On My Way to Somerville and Derry

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-09T23:14:28-04:00

Yup. That's Sityodtong and Pro Martial Arts Academy. Seminar tomorrow as well as a bunch of privates at Tim Barchard's gym. Then it's back to training with Mark DellaGrotte. This is the best. Check back for more updates and pics!

MMA Training at Gracie Stamford

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-09T22:57:41-04:00

After doing all of my other training, I felt that some light sparring was in order. My cousin, Neiman Gracie had just finished teaching at Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu here in Stamford. We went about ten rounds of light sparring. It was a great workout! Thanks, Neiman!

Tim Burke of Hybrid Athletics is INTENSE!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-08T22:54:23-04:00

I thought I'd go to Hybrid for a good workout. Kinda take it easy after a tough day of training. Tim had other plans. It was intense. It was just what he said I needed. And you know what... he was right.

Back in CT - at Hybrid and Cachorrao's Academy

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-07T23:03:41-04:00

As soon as I got back, I was right in it. As if the training in Boston and New Hampshire wasn't tough enough, I was right back at Hybrid Athletics training with Rob Orlando and Tim Burke. And of course, Ricardo 'Cachorrao' Almeida's academy for MMA training. The mat was packed with MMA superstars. Great training!

Training with Mark DellaGrotte and Tim Barchard

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-10-03T07:43:06-04:00

I've been here since Thursday night, now is the first opportunity I've had to write. It's been that busy. Training at Sityodtong and Professional Martial Arts Academy has been I.N.T.E.N.S.E.! Everybody here is the toughest of the tough and we are all raising our game.

At Cachorrao's Academy

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-30T12:18:35-04:00

Another great training today at Cachorrao's academy. All smiles now 'cause the training is over. Ha ha ha!

Interview with FIghts We Want

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-29T12:29:50-04:00

Check out this link for my interview with Fights We Want.

Training with Ricardo Almeida and Rob Orlando at Hybrid Athletics

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-28T20:43:40-04:00

This morning's MMA training at Ricardo Almeida's school was great. I trained with my cousin and UFC fighter Rolles Gracie, UFC fighter Dante Rivera and IFL fighter Jamal Patterson. Then it was back to CT. Check out the new photos on the Training Photos page. Rob Orlando of Hybrid Athletics is INTENSE. The best place for MMA strength and conditioning training. It's good to be back at Hybrid! Check out their site!

Interview on MMA Die Hards

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-28T02:50:25-04:00

A great interview with MMA Die Hards - Not a Woman's MMA Show with Shayna Baszler, Bruce Hoyer and Isaac Duncan. Interview starts at about 18 minutes.

Poster for the November 9th Fight in Tel Aviv - IFC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-27T19:23:26-04:00

Exhibition Sparring - Daniel Gracie vs Matt Hamill

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-26T10:25:08-04:00

This was a great exhibition sparring between myself and Matt 'Tha Hammer' Hamill at the recent CNY Battleground event. This was part of the awesome training weekend I had with Matt Hamill. Thanks again to Matt, Duff, Shrek and Frank.

Back in CT - Training Schedule Resumes in CT and NYC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-21T11:43:40-04:00

It's nice to get away and it's great to be back! Today, I'll be training here in Stamford at Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Stamford and then later in NYC at Renzo Gracie NYC. Check back for pics.

Another Great Day Training

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-20T18:09:54-04:00

Many thanks to everybody. The weekend was perfect with all the training (Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, strength and conditioning...). Matt, Duff and Shrek were really nice and myself, Roger and Danny all had a great time. Thanks!

CNY Battleground Event

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-18T18:08:47-04:00

Well, this is gonna be something to remember - a 'fight' between myself and Matt Hamill. That's all I can say. If you'll be at tonite's Muay Thai event, you'll see what I mean!

Going by Train to Train with Matt Hamill

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-17T18:06:27-04:00

We (Roger Ambrosi, Danny Morales and myself) are on the way to Utica, NY. It's going to be a great weekend. As soon as we arrive in Utica, we're gonna hit the ground running and head right to Matt's training center.

Seminar, Event and Training this Weekend!

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-14T21:51:34-04:00

I'll be at Mohawk Valley MMA this Sunday September 19th for a great seminar. If you're nearby, be sure to join us for an awesome BJJ seminar. Here's the link to the school. I'll be at the CNY Battleground event on Saturday September 18th. Looking forward to seeing the place packed! And I'll be training with Matt 'The Hammer' Hamill. It's a weekend of MMA, BJJ and Muay Thai. Is there anything better?

Hybrid Athletics, The Tire and Tim Burke

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-14T20:22:01-04:00

It was another intense training with Tim Burke of Hybrid Athletics. Rob Orlando and Tim Burke must spend all their time thinking of crazy workouts! Tonite was not the nite for the tire! Danny Morales and I added insult to injury and sat on it!

This Weekend I'll be Training with Matt 'The Hammer' Hamill

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-13T21:55:11-04:00

From Friday till Sunday I'll be training with UFC fighter and Champion wrestler Matt 'The Hammer' Hamill. Matt will be hosting an event and I'll be teaching a seminar, too. Check back for more info!

More Great Training at RGA NYC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-13T21:44:50-04:00

After a great weekend of BBQ'ing, a seminar at RGA Cresskill and relaxing, it felt great to hit the mats and train with all the guys at Renzo Gracie Academy in NYC. Here's a pic of myself with Gregor Gracie, Igor Gracie, Georges St. Pierre. Danny Morales, Ali Abdel-Aziz from Dominance MMA Management and Leo Leite.

RGA NYC - Wrestling and BJJ

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-10T00:03:08-04:00

After the MMA class at Renzo Gracie Stamford, a bunch of us jumped into the car with Renzo Gracie Black Belt Mark Cerrone and headed down to RGA NYC for the wrestling class. As usual, the class was packed. Team Renzo Gracie has a lot of students fighting in the next couple months - Rafael 'Sapo' Natal, David Branch (both in UFC Fight Night on September 15th), Igor Gracie, Gregor Gracie, Daisuke Yamaji, Carlos Cline (all four in the upcoming Brick City Fighting Championship) and yes, me. It was intense! Afterwards, I stuck around and trained in two BJJ classes. All in all a great day! And Mark even drove us all home! Thanks, Mark!

Saturday Training at Renzo Gracie Academy NYC

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-04T08:57:06-04:00

Great training on Saturday with Felipe Natal, Leleo, Ali, Rafael Sapo Natal (training for his upcoming UFC fight September 15), Roger Ambrosi, Matt Domney, Javier and Moya (from Costa Rica). Johnny Tsunami, Rolles Gracie, Igor Gracie (training for his upcoming fight October 2) and Daniel Montanha. A great group with great training at Renzo Gracie Academy!

Training at Hybrid Athletics With Rob Orlando

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-07T08:45:07-04:00

Rob Orlando, a Strongman and CrossFit competitor, has designed a workout that utilizes the innovative theories of CrossFit with the time tested exercises of Strongman competitions. This is an ideal combination. Trainer and CrossFit competitor, TIm Burke, trains me during the week. Check out this pic...

Article on ADCC Website

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-05T11:05:38-04:00

The word is getting out. Check out the site for ADCC to read about my return to MMA! Click here.

New YouTube Channel Ready Now

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-05T10:08:55-04:00

I recently created my YouTube channel. Check it out here.

Return of Ikemen

heather@heatherkarlie.com — 2010-09-01T22:25:23-04:00

For those of you who knew me then, this is me now. I am training for my return to MMA. The sport that my family invented. In other words, I am returning to where I belong. Journey with me as I keep you updated on my training. Keep it locked here to be the 1st to know!

A great training at John Danaher's class with Georges St. Pierre, Bruno Tostes, Rulivan Gracie, Rory MacDonald. Gregor Gracie (training for his upcoming fight October 2), Renzo Gracie, Danny Morales, Ali Abdel-Aziz. David Branch (training for his upcoming UFC fight September 15).