Guy Neivens from the ADCC responds to Royler Gracie’s letter. Guy reveals more of the proposed deal and details surrounding the apparent fallout.
Mentioning “veteran matches” that would help promote the sport such as: Renzo Gracie vs Mario Sperry and the Royler vs Eddie match as a natual fit.
BJJ fans, grappling fans – it looks like it has come down to money plain and simple. It’s good to see that $25K can be raised for a veteran match in this sport and hope other opportunities persist for the veterans like Royler, Renzo, Mario and Eddie.
Click to read more… Read the letter, perhaps more responses are on the way, Royler – it’s back to you.
[social][/social][einset][/einset]The Official response from ADCC to Royler Gracie letter (via : Adcombat.com )
“Royler is a true champion of ADCC with an unbeaten three world titles to his name, a true legend.
ADCC goal since 1998 has been to promote Submission Fighting worldwide, having success now with Federations in more than fifty countries. A few months ago ADCC committee decided it would generate more interest in the sport to promote some veteran matches- Renzo Gracie and Mario Sperry is now confirmed, and the idea of a rematch between Royler Gracie and Eddie Bravo seemed a natural re-match.
ADCC secured sponsorship for the prize money for each fight $25000 however, it turned out Royler wanted $50000 just to appear plus the $25000 if he won, that would be $75000 for a senior grappling match! ADCC attempted to secure more sponsorship, until now with no success. Thereafter it was decided that we cannot offer more to veterans than we do to our current superfight contenders Jacarre and Braulio.
It should be noted ADCC is a non-profit making organization with the sole intent to make it a worldwide sport. However we would love to still see this fight go ahead.
Both Royler who has competed three times and thousands of other fighters who have competed in ADCC are aware there has never been any contract between ADCC and any fighter, it is a tournament attended by invitation or qualification. ADCC will continue to promote the sport of submission fighting with the aim getting the respect and support it surely deserves.
Guy Neivens
ADCC”
It sounds like Royler Doesn’t really want to compete. To make such a high demand is absurd, no other grappler is requesting such a high amount and since Royler is asking for so much, it looks like he will get nothing .