07/03/2025
I’m deeply saddened that our lead BJJ instructor, Richard Bresler, passed away yesterday. Richard was a true pioneer of BJJ he was the first consistent student of Rorion Gracie, he setup those popular challenge matches and even helped fund the first UFC. If you train BJJ or are a fan of the UFC, Richard had a hand making that a reality. I’m not too good with dates but I believe I started training with Richard consistently in 2016. His teaching style was definitely different than what I was accustomed to from other martial arts training but it really worked, it kept me engaged, and coming back for more.
When I decided I wanted to open 360 in 2019 I was still a white belt and there was no way I was comfortable teaching BJJ. I reached out to Richard in the hopes that he would be willing to teach at 360, without hesitation he said he would love to. This really helped legitimize 360 by having a (I believe at the time) 5th degree black belt instructor. We had some great times at 360, on the mats feeling his passion for jiu jitsu through his teaching, making sure students were doing things correctly, and keeping traditional, self defense style Jiu Jitsu alive. I was so honored when he awarded me my blue belt, and I promise to continue to work and earn my black belt.
Over the years the way he introduced me to people changed, first as his student, then he would refer to me as his boss, but the title I cherished most was his friend. Off the mats we had great conversations, and laughs sometimes staying an hour after class just chatting it up. I do feel like 360 gave him the opportunity to be more playful and connect with students even more deeply. I miss joking around with him even to the point where, of all people, he was at a loss for words. I miss hearing him telling us to relax, I miss when I would answer his call and say “orale!” just so he would respond with “what’s up holmes” and honestly I just miss talking to my friend.
I am truly so grateful for the opportunity to learn from Richard, the little details will always stick with me. He will always have his place on the instructor wall at 360. Thank you for everything my friend, now it’s your turn to relax. 🥋
