Brasil Combate’s Eduardo Cruz talked to Rolles Gracie (3-0) today about his debut at UFC 109 against British Mostapha Al-Turk, in February 2010. Rolles is the son of the Rolls Gracie, consider by many as the most tecnical Brazilian Jiu Jitsu athlete ever. Check the entire interview:

Brasil Combate: Rolles, first and foremost, it’s such an honour to interview you. How are you doing?

Rolles Gracie: It’s a pleasure talking with you. I’m really excited about my latest news.

Brasil Combate: You’re the son of one of the best BJJ fighters ever, tragically dead in an accident in 1982, when you were only 4 years old. What experiences do you remember from the time you lived with your father?

Rolles Gracie: Yeah, I was actually 4 years old when he died. It was 1982. I was 4 and my brother, Igor, was 2.  I have some very good memories of my father.  He used to take me to the academy to roll and play on the mats with him.  Later in life, I realized that my training actually began then.  He was introducing me to the mats even at this early age. He was a loving father and my family often shares memories and stories of him with me.

Brasil Combate: Your uncle Rilion Gracie was responsible for your starting in Jiu Jitsu. What can you tell about the training with him at Gracie Barra school?

Rolles Gracie: After my father passed away, Rilion is the one who took over in his place. I was training with him all throughout my childhood. He is responsible for the foundation of my jiu-jitsu.  I admire him both as a man and as a teacher.  We are still close today.

Brasil Combate: You moved to New York city in 2004 and started teaching at Renzo Gracie academy. Was Renzo who suggested you to start a MMA career?

Rolles Gracie: I always knew that I wanted to take this path. Before moving to New York, this was already in my plans. Renzo definitely encouraged me and helped me make my transition from jiu-jitsu to MMA.

Brasil Combate: How the opportunity of fighting for Art of War came up?

Rolles Gracie: Art Of War 12 was a big publicity event and the Sheik invited several high profile MMA personalities and members of my family to the event in China.  I was originally invited to the event, but after some discussion with Renzo and the President of Art Of War, I was invited to join the card and I was really happy to be a part of it.

Brasil Combate: You score three victories in three fights. Aren’t you worried for not having too much experience to debut at UFC?

Rolles Gracie: Not at all.  I have three victories already because of my experience. I’ve been fighting all my life. MMA is simply another application of my skills.

Brasil Combate: You have been training with Greg Jackson and Renzo Gracie. How’s the trainings going on?

Rolles Gracie: Training couldn’t be better. Between the two camps I have access to the best coaches and training partners.

Brasil Combate: What are the differences among Renzo and Jackson’s way of teaching?

Rolles Gracie: They are very similar.  Greg is a great guy, very charismatic, just like Renzo.  They play nicely off each other.

Brasil Combate: What fighters have you been sparring with?

Rolles Gracie: I’ve trained a lot with Rashad Evans, both in New Mexico and in New York.  Also Elliot Marshal, Brian Stan and several guys from the IFL – Andre Gusmao, Brian Vettel and Jamal Patterson. I train daily with my students at the academy in Holmdel, New Jersey.

Brasil Combate: You’re confirmed to square off Mostapha Al-Turk at UFC 109. What did you think about the opponent and what do you know from him as a fighter?

Rolles Gracie: I think its an interesting match-up. Although he’s coming off two losses, I think he’s a well-rounded guy who could give trouble to a lot of people. I think his last two fight were bad match-ups for him and I have to train hard for this fight if I want to have my hand raised in the octagon.

Brasil Combate: Rickson Gracie stated some time ago that Jiu Jitsu is sufficient to be victorious in MMA. Do you agree with him? Have you been improving you stand-up skills?

Rolles Gracie: I believe jiu-jitsu is the backbone of MMA. But the sport has evolved a lot and I’m always training to be a well-rounded fighter. I’ve been training boxing, kick-boxing and Muay Thai ever since I began my transition into MMA.

Brasil Combate: What heavyweight fighters you see like the toughest ones in this division and how many fights do you think are necessary to get the title shot?

Rolles Gracie: The heavyweight division is stacked these days and it seems that the man with the price on his head is Brock Lesnar. He has the belt. I’m taking one fight at a time. I need to get my feet wet in the octagon first and then UFC will let me know when the title is in my sight.

*Picture credits: Sherdog.com

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