Royce Gracie, a pioneer of mixed martial arts (MMA) and UFC Hall of Famer, will be the 28th speaker in the University of Guam’s Presidential Lecture Series. The lecture will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 17 in the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences (CLASS) Lecture Hall on the UOG Campus.  Gracie’s lecture is entitled "The History and Philosophy of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu." 

"The University is pleased to welcome modern sports icon Royce Gracie as our latest guest lecturer,” said Dr. Robert Underwood, UOG President. “Gracie’s contributions have helped develop Brazilian Jiu Jitsu into a worldwide phenomenon, with many in our local community practicing the martial art.” 

The event is open to the public. Seating is limited. For more information about the lecture, contact Jonas Macapinlac at jmac@triton.uog.edu.

About the Lecturer

Royce Gracie is one of the most prolific and influential mixed martial arts (MMA) athletes in the sport’s history. He became an “underdog” hero while changing the landscape of combat sports and revolutionizing martial arts. 

After winning the first UFC tournaments (UFC1, UFC2, UFC4), he proved that with the knowledge of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a "David" could beat a "Goliath." Royce is the only fighter in modern MMA history to defeat four opponents in the same night; unlike today, these tournaments had no weight divisions, no time limits and no real rules. He holds the record for submission victories in the UFC at 11.

In 2003, Royce was the first fighter inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.