Overview
New Wave Jiu Jitsu is a premier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) academy based in Austin, Texas, recognized for its innovative approach to no-gi grappling and its rapid ascent to the forefront of the global BJJ community. Under the direction of esteemed coach John Danaher, New Wave has cultivated a reputation for technical excellence, systematic training methodologies, and consistent competitive success. The team’s influence extends beyond the mats, shaping the evolution of modern grappling through instruction, strategic thought leadership, and global community engagement.
History and Formation
New Wave Jiu Jitsu was established in 2021 following the dissolution of the Danaher Death Squad (DDS), a team that had previously dominated the international no-gi scene. The split, which attracted significant attention within the grappling world, was attributed to professional differences and divergent visions among members. John Danaher, alongside elite athletes such as Gordon Ryan and Garry Tonon, formed New Wave, while other former DDS members founded B-Team Jiu Jitsu. Early additions to New Wave, such as Giancarlo Bodoni and Oliver Taza, further solidified the academy’s competitive depth and instructional expertise.
Leadership and Coaching Philosophy
John Danaher
John Danaher, originally from New Zealand, is widely regarded as one of the most influential minds in contemporary BJJ. With a background in judo and wrestling and a career as a philosophy professor, Danaher is known for his analytical, systematic approach to grappling. He pioneered advancements in leg lock systems, back attacks, and positional control. At New Wave, Danaher’s coaching philosophy emphasizes:
– Systematic Technique: Breaking down complex movements into teachable, repeatable systems.
– Strategic Adaptability: Encouraging athletes to innovate and adapt to evolving competitive landscapes.
– Intellectual Rigor: Fostering a culture of inquiry, experimentation, and continuous improvement.
Danaher’s “Enter the System” instructional series is considered foundational for modern grapplers globally.
Key Athletes
Gordon Ryan
Widely regarded as the most accomplished no-gi grappler of his era, Gordon Ryan is central to New Wave’s identity. His accolades include:
– 5× ADCC World Champion (including Superfight winner, 2022)
– 2× IBJJF No-Gi World Champion
– 4× Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI) Champion
Ryan is celebrated for his technical mastery, strategic acumen, and outspoken public persona, which has contributed to both his global following and periodic controversy.
Read Gordon Ryan’s full profile
Garry Tonon
A founding member, Garry Tonon is renowned for his dynamic submission style and versatility in both BJJ and mixed martial arts. He is a multiple-time ADCC medalist and a successful MMA competitor with ONE Championship, known for his creativity, aggressiveness, and instructional contributions to the team.
Giancarlo Bodoni
Giancarlo Bodoni gained international prominence by winning the 88kg division at the 2022 ADCC World Championships. A black belt under Bernardo Faria, Bodoni has further developed his skills under Danaher’s mentorship, establishing himself as one of the sport’s leading competitors.
Read our in-depth profile of Giancarlo Bodoni
Training Environment and Team Structure
New Wave Jiu Jitsu operates a collaborative, high-performance training environment that combines elite instruction with an inclusive ethos. Unlike some top-tier teams that are strictly invite-only, New Wave is recognized for welcoming both established professionals and aspiring competitors. Training is led by John Danaher and senior athletes, focusing on:
– Technical Refinement: Detailed instruction and drilling of fundamental and advanced systems.
– Positional Sparring: Scenario-based rolling to develop situational awareness and adaptability.
– Open Learning: Encouraging discussion, innovation, and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange.
This culture has contributed to New Wave’s reputation as a leader in both athlete development and instructional quality.
Competitive Achievements
Since its inception, New Wave Jiu Jitsu has produced numerous champions and high-level competitors, with highlights including:
– Multiple ADCC World Championships and podium finishes
– Dominant performances at Who’s Number One (WNO), EBI, and other major events
– Technical innovations that have influenced global trends in no-gi grappling, particularly in leg entanglements, back control, and transitional attacks
Innovations and Influence
New Wave is credited with advancing systematic approaches to grappling, notably in leg lock and back attack systems. Instructional content produced by Danaher and his athletes is widely regarded as essential for practitioners at all levels, with a global reach through seminars, online platforms, and digital content. The team’s emphasis on intellectual understanding and strategic application has set new standards for technical development in BJJ.
Rivalries and Broader Impact
A significant aspect of New Wave’s narrative is its rivalry with B-Team Jiu Jitsu, formed by other former DDS members. This competition has increased the visibility and professionalization of BJJ, drawing attention to the evolving landscape of elite grappling. New Wave’s approach to athlete development, branding, and educational outreach mirrors broader trends in the sport, contributing to its international growth and sophistication.
Controversies and Public Perception
New Wave Jiu Jitsu as an organization has not been involved in major scandals or allegations of misconduct. However, several points have drawn attention within the BJJ community:
– Team Formation: The 2021 split from the Danaher Death Squad was widely discussed and subject to speculation. Official statements cited professional differences as the cause, with no verified reports of personal conflict.
– Athlete Conduct: Gordon Ryan’s outspoken presence on social media has led to public disputes and feuds with other athletes and organizations. These controversies are generally considered reflective of individual behavior rather than team culture.
To date, no credible allegations of wrongdoing have been reported against New Wave or its leadership. Disputes have largely been limited to public exchanges and do not represent organizational issues.
Recent Developments (2023–2024)
– Sustained Competitive Success: New Wave athletes, particularly Gordon Ryan, have maintained leading positions in international rankings. The team continues to secure podium placements at major competitions.
– Team Growth: The roster has expanded, attracting established competitors and emerging talents from around the world.
– Instructional Leadership: Danaher and team members regularly release new instructional materials, further shaping technical standards in BJJ.
– Community Engagement: Increased participation in seminars, training camps, and digital initiatives has broadened New Wave’s influence within the global grappling community.
Conclusion
New Wave Jiu Jitsu stands at the forefront of modern Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, distinguished by its world-class coaching, technical innovation, and inclusive, results-driven culture. With a roster of elite athletes and a commitment to advancing the art and science of grappling, New Wave continues to set new benchmarks for excellence and to shape the future direction of competitive BJJ worldwide.
For an inside look at the New Wave training environment, view this FloGrappling vlog:
References
– GrapplerHQ: Danaher Death Squad Split
– GrapplerHQ: Gordon Ryan Profile
– GrapplerHQ: Giancarlo Bodoni Profile
– FloGrappling: New Wave Training Vlog
This article is current as of June 2024. Updates will be provided as new information emerges.
