Beginners, Holger Chen Show Growing Popularity of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Taiwan
A two-day Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament in Taipei drew crowds of beginners, showcasing the sport's rising popularity in Taiwan. Among those taking part was local influencer Holger Chen, also known as "Guan Zhang" (the Gym Boss) trying his hand at the "gentle art."
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Taipei Tournament Highlights Growing Jiu-Jitsu Scene in Taiwan
TAIPEI, Taiwan — Crowds of novice Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) enthusiasts gathered in Taipei over the weekend for a two-day tournament, reflecting the sport’s surging popularity in Taiwan. Among the newcomers was Holger Chen, a controversial influencer widely known as Guan Zhang or The “Gym Boss,” who stepped onto the mat for his first local competition.
Chen, 45, entered the adult category, competing against athletes two decades his junior. Speaking at the event, he explained his motivation for participating.
“I am 45 years old, but today I signed up for the adult group, which is for young people in their twenties,” Chen said. “I want to try to tell all Taiwanese that jiu-jitsu is actually a great thing, and I hope everyone can come and participate.”
The tournament marks another chapter in Chen’s colorful life story. Once a marine and later a member of a gang, Chen’s current endeavors include martial arts, fitness and social commentary. Often likened to U.S. podcaster Joe Rogan, Chen is known for his unfiltered opinions on politics and Taiwan’s future.
While Chen’s celebrity status brought attention to the event, most attendees were focused on trying their hand at the sport or supporting loved ones. Yu Chih-cheng, nicknamed “Baby Monster” and the winner of the 2024 AMMA Open Championship, emphasized the growing awareness of Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
“Now, gradually, many people are starting to learn about this sport, especially those who don’t participate in it themselves but are aware of it,” Yu said. “So I think there has really been a lot of progress.”
Brazilian jiu-jitsu has gained a foothold in Taiwan since the opening of Taiwan BJJ in 2003. According to black belt instructor and academy owner Dmitri Telfair, the number of training centers has grown significantly, with over 10 academies now operating in Taipei alone.
“Influencers, people who maybe have a bigger name outside of jiu-jitsu, now trying jiu-jitsu, recognizing it’s one of the best self-defense sports, that helps spread the word,” Telfair said. “But if it’s a flash in the pan, then it will die out.”
Influencer Chen won his first match in the tournament by overpowering his opponent but sustained an arm injury, which forced him to withdraw from further bouts.
Despite such setbacks, the sport continues to gain exposure, thanks to high-profile participants like Chen. With a growing community and greater public interest, BJJ is introducing more people in Taiwan to the world of grappling.
