Brazilian jiu-jitsu red belt and vale tudo icon Rickson Gracie announced this week that he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease two years ago, but despite the condition he remains in good day-to-day health and is experiencing minimal symptoms. Rickson described the condition as a "gift from God", and expressed gratitude for how the situation has shaped his perspective.

On The Kyra Gracie podcast, Rickson disclosed his condition and detailed a few symptoms he has been experiencing including minor tremors, but remained adament that he was still in good overall health and spirit.

Two years ago I was diagnosed with Parkinson's so a lot of things I would like to do physically I am decreasing, but at the same time for me, it was nothing very traumatic. I see that I am ready in my life for anything I accept well, not only things my mistakes but my victories. I accept my life well, what I've done you know, so I'm happy today. I already did what I intend to do, my motivation to wake up in the morning and work continues so I see that like one more, let's say... so it's not a surprise but it's a gift from God to see what you're going to do, you understand, because if if you have a lot of money and you do things wrong, the money didn't help you at all, but if I give you a lot of money, you start doing good things I'm proud to have given you the money. So God has now given me one situation where I have to transform this for the good and the relationship that I have is more important to empower people is to transform the way we practice so that it is more accessible to the people who care most.

Parkinson's is a degenerative neurological disorder that causes uncontrolled muscle tremors, stiffness, and coordination issues. There is no known cure, but there are treatments that help reduce the effect of the symptoms.

Rickson is one of the foundational figures of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The son of Helio is a 9th-degree red belt and retired undefeated fighter, having competed in different forms of grappling, vale tudo, and MMA for many years, with no reported losses. His son Kron Gracie is an ADCC champion and UFC fighter.