Roy Dean’s Yemaso Experience
In a culture where genuine humility among BJJ black belts is seldom seen, Roy Dean’s acute and honest observational descriptions of Marcos as an instructor and competitor are refreshing. He talks about stylistic adaptations as well as Yemaso’s athletic prowess. From Roy Dean himself:
“If Kano Jiu Jitsu was version 1.0, and BJJ was 2.0, this was 2.5. It utilized Brabo chokes, De La Riva, 50/50, spider guard, half-guard, deep-half, judo gripping, wrestling, footlocks, and advanced combinations that included the key transitions that win at the World level. His system was numbered as well. It was all mapped out. Nothing was left to chance. He knew what to go for at all times. There is a gulf between a solid black belt and a world class competitor. That can be difficult to believe for some, but once you feel it, you understand. I have felt it a few times now. It leaves an impression.”
By mere circumstance, Yemaso and Roy Dean actually had a physical confrontation in 2002. They were both blue belts, and they were competing at the United Gracie Tournament in same division. Both of them had done away with their previous competitors decisively. It was after that fight that they struck up a friendship, and they have been in contact ever since.
Roy Dean teaches in a unique way; his instruction of techniques is meticulous, and he expects nothing but precision from his students. If you have not seen their testing videos, I highly suggest you do. They are entertaining and they imply how much Roy Dean focuses on technique. He has videos of students testing at all belt levels.
Marcos cannot wait for another visit to Roy Dean’s academy. He loves teaching seminars in the great city of Bend, Oregon. Be on the look out for the next Yemaso seminar in Oregon!
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