Grappling took the world of martial arts by storm in the early 1990s with the advent of the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and other no-holds-barred events, and quickly became one of the most popular fighting methods in the world. In Grappling Masters, through conversations with historical figures such as Helio Gracie, Gene LeBell and Wally Jay, and numerous current world-class masters such as Rorion Gracie, Gokor Chivichyan, Oleg Taktarov, Rickson Gracie and Marco Ruas, the many threads of grappling learning, legend and lore are woven together to present a complete and integrated view of this eclectic art of fighting, philosophy, and self-defense. For the first time, interviews with 22 of the world's top grappling masters have been gathered together in one book. Containing information that has not appeared anywhere else, the interviews contain intriguing thoughts, fascinating personal details, revealing philosophies and hidden history. In these 22 gems, each master reveals a true love for the art and a deep understanding of every facet of the practice and spirit of the various grappling disciplines. No matter how well you think you know these masters of unarmed combat, you haven't truly experienced their wit, wisdom, and insight until you've read Grappling Masters. Any practitioner who appreciates martial arts history and philosophy, and who feels that this rich heritage is a necessary stepping-stone to their own personal development, will find this book an invaluable reference and a must-have addition to their library. Book jacket.