Maynard James Keenan, renowned for his musical artistry, has also dedicated himself to the discipline of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His journey into martial arts offers a unique perspective on personal growth, self-defense, and the pursuit of excellence.
Maynard James Keenan performing with Tool
Early Influences and Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu
Keenan credits Primus drummer Tim Alexander with introducing him to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, though he also recalls the lessons he learned from his father, who doubled as his high school wrestling coach. Maynard James Keenan began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in the mid-1990s, training under the esteemed Rickson Gracie lineage. His introduction to the art coincided with the rise of the early UFC era, placing him among the first mainstream music figures to embrace Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.
The Significance of Martial Arts
For Keenan, martial arts is as much about “personal growth and personal understanding and reflection” as it is about self-defense. “Maybe it’ll never happen, but if you’re in a situation where you have some drunken, blithering idiot, or somebody’s crazy - I do it for that purpose,” he said. “The chess part of it, on the mat, in the gi, is very mentally stimulating,” Keenan said. “If you watch some of the top-level black belt guys competing, it’s half-inches.
Towards the end of the clip, Keenan tied his jiu-jitsu training to the notion of becoming complacent and overly confident as an artist after reaching a certain level of success. Keenan added, “Big fan of Chris Cornell - did you think about Chris Cornell this week? I didn’t. I love the guy. That’s what’s gonna happen to you. People are gonna be upset that you’re gone, and then they’re gonna move the fuck on with their lives. So be happy with what your decisions are.
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Progression and Recognition
Keenan's progression through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ranks was steady yet prolonged, primarily due to recurring injuries-particularly affecting his neck and back-and the rigorous demands of his music career. Throughout his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey, Keenan frequently trained privately or within a close-knit group, strategically adapting his practice to accommodate physical limitations resulting from past injuries. His tailored approach allowed him to balance the demanding schedule of touring and performing with consistent technical development. In late 2021, Keenan's perseverance and technical refinement were recognized by Luis "Limão" Herédia, a prominent black belt under Rickson Gracie, who promoted him to brown belt.
Maynard James Keenan promoted to Brown Belt in BJJ
Keenan himself also shared a thank-you post, sharing a photo of his new belt while tagging many of those who helped him along the way: “New Chapter.
Verde Valley Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
The Verde Valley Brazilian Jiu Jitsu studio, located at 1100 S. AZ-260 in Cottonwood, Arizona, was founded by Maynard James Keenan. The academy offers a wide range of classes for all ages and experience levels, with a mission to preserve and share the fundamentals of martial arts. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, much like life itself, is a journey - a path filled with obstacles that are worth overcoming. It’s a journey of self-discovery. Verde Valley BJJ was established to serve as a starting point for those journeys, for self-defense, competitive sport, and physical, mental, and spiritual development.
"The Great In Between: An Introduction to Jiu Jitsu"
MAYNARD JAMES KEENAN OFFERS INTRODUCTION TO BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU IN UPCOMING STREAMING FILM“THE GREAT IN BETWEEN: AN INTRODUCTION TO JIU JITSU”FILMED AT THE VERDE VALLEY BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU ACADEMY, THE 90-MINUTE INTRODUCTION TO THE EMPOWERING SPORT FEATURES INSTRUCTION FROM A GROUP OF SKILLED BLACK BELTSDec. 2, 2024, Cottonwood, Ariz. - “The Great In Between: An Introduction to Jiu Jitsu,” a Maynard James Keenan-hosted introduction to the dynamic sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, debuts on Dec. 13 via Puscifertv.com.
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Filmed at the Verde Valley Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy in Cottonwood, Ariz., the 90-minute class offers a hands-on seminar tailored for beginners and the Jiu Jitsu-curious. Led by Keenan and a group of skilled black belts, the team guides viewers through the essential development of stabilizing muscles and myelin connections, building a foundation for success in this confidence-building, puzzle-solving martial art.
“You can do this,” Keenan says. “We’ve got your back. Not literally. But we can also teach you how to get us off your back. See what I did there?” Pre-orders of the film, which is available as a 72-hour rental, and various commemorative merch bundles, are available now via Puscifertv.com. A Cyber Monday special is available today only, featuring a 20% discount on bundles over $50 with the code VVBJJ24 (limit one per customer).“The Great In Between: An Introduction to Jiu Jitsu” was directed by Chris Staab and features music by Puscifer. Photo credit: Nicole Staab
Maynard Jiu-Jitsu Lesson For Chris Rock
Balancing Music and Martial Arts
Keenan’s martial-arts training should have him in solid shape for a busy 2024 touring itinerary, including Tool’s US arena tour, which kicks off this Wednesday (January 10th) in Baltimore (tickets available here). The singer will also hit the road as part of the “Sessanta” tour celebrating his 60th birthday.
Upcoming Tours:
| Tour | Start Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tool US Arena Tour | January 10th, 2024 | Baltimore, USA |
| Sessanta Tour | 2024 | Various Locations |
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