Rodrigo Gracie has an opponent for his returned to MMA. After switching Pride at K-1, Rodrigo will debut at Japanese tournament facing former Ultimate Fighting Championship champion, BJ Penn. According to the Gracie, everything is set to the showdown, but the date. The options are November 20 or December 31.

from kakuto.com

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Kid Peligro jiu-Jitsu News . . . Rodrigo Gracie talks about his possible fight with B.J.Penn
Submitted by: Kid Peligro / ADCC JJ Editor
Posted On 10/05/2004


Photo by Ronnie Abbate


Rodrigo Gracie v BJ Penn

There's been a lot of rumors about a possible blockbuster match up between Rodrigo Gracie and BJ Penn. A fight like this one would generate a lot of interest, as both fighters have aggressive styles and both are ground specialists.

Because of the magnitude of the fight and the attention it has generated, I got a hold of Rodrigo to verify the info and to find out the inside scoop.



KP: Rodrigo there is a rumor that you maybe fighting BJ Penn; any truth to that?

RG: I was offered to fight BJ Penn. I took the fight, however my manager has some details to work out with the promoter, so until that is done its not sure, but its very possible.


KP: If the fight happens, when do you think it will take place?

RG: Well, like it said, the details have not been finalized yet, but it may be as early as November 20th or as late as December 31st.


KP: Have you started your training yet, just in case the fight is a go?

RG: I have been staying in fighting shape, I haven't changed my training routine at all. I have been training the same way I prepare for all my fights. Now I have adjusted the training specifically for BJ, so yes I am training as if the fight is a go.


KP: What is your strategy for the fight?

RG: That you will have to find out the day of the fight. It’s a closely guarded secret. (lol)


KP: BJ Penn is the only American to win the Worlds as a Black belt, does that pose any concerns to you?

RG: BJ Penn is a great fighter, a very tough opponent, I like that. His Jiu-Jitsu is great, his standup is good; he is going to be a tough test. But I have been doing jiu-jitsu all my life, so I take it in consideration that he won the Worlds, but does not put any more pressure on me.


KP: Who are you training with for the fight?

RG:I have a good team of trainers for the weights and cardio and jiu-jitsu, as well as some standup.


KP: There is also a rumor that Royler may be fighting on the same card, any truth to that.

RG: I think so. I heard he is fighting on that card, but I am not sure, you have to ask Royler about that.


KP: If the fight does take place who is going with you?

RG: Renzo & Royce will be there, my conditioning coach Martin Rooney and my training partners will be there. Do you want to come Kid? Talk to my manager he will hook it up for you.


KP: Anything you want to add?

RG: I just want to thank all my fans, my students, my family and those who have supported me in my career. Their support and energy mean a lot to me. I am training very hard for this fight and I will be ready for anything and everything. I give BJ all the credit in the world, but I will be ready to fight, and ready to win.


KP: Thank you Rodrigo

RG: Thank you very much Kid.

I'm picking Rodrigo Gracie in this one. Not sure why. Just a hunch I guess.

Penn will have his hands full with Rodrigo. Rodrigo's bigger and his BJJ is damn good.

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I'm picking Rodrigo - We need to see him fightr more often

If Rodrigo can put Penn on his back, he will have an advantage. However, standing Penn is the better fighter. I think Gracie can win though. I want to see this fight.