I Defend The 2nd: Royce Gracie

Is Brazilian-style gun control coming to America? Listen to these chilling words of warning from Royce Gracie, one of the most successful and influential mixed martial arts fighters of all time.

posted on October 20, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Is Brazilian-style gun control coming to America? Listen to these chilling words of warning from Royce Gracie, one of the most successful and influential mixed martial arts fighters of all time. Gracie says grew up in Brazil during a time when the gun culture was very similar to that of Americans, learning to shoot from his father and spending recreational time on the range. However, over time, the Brazilian government found creative ways to erode those gun rights—such as an arduous and extremely expensive application process—making it nearly impossible for most Brazilians to own a firearm, let alone carry one for personal protection. While Gracie says everyone should master hand-to-hand combat—a technique for which he has become most famous—he stresses the importance of being able to carry a firearm for situations during which multiple aggressors might challenge you. That is why, he says, the Second Amendment must remain, and why NRA is critical to protecting the rights outlined in it.

"The best way to describe NRA is NRA is the front line of resistance," he said. "They're educators. They're here to educate people from a young age to adults—men, women, doesn't matter the age—about how to use a gun, how to, to be aware of the dangers of the gun, to be aware of what the gun can do and how to treat the gun and how to teach about guns. NRA is the front line of resistance against the government trying to take our Second Amendment rights away."

Watch the full compelling story told by Gracie himself here.

Latest

Rao Springtime Turkey Season Surprise Lede Istock 1248381746
Rao Springtime Turkey Season Surprise Lede Istock 1248381746

Spring Turkey Season Surprises

It is important for hunters to remember the threats that come with springtime in the woods.

New Gear 2026: Hunting & Outdoors, Safe Storage and Nifty Gifts

A combination of cool gadgets, gun storage options and unique gift items round out our coverage of our favorite finds from SHOT Show 2026.

His and Hers: Gifts for Outdoorsy Valentines

If your Valentine longs for chocolates or a dozen American Beauties—then this is not the gift guide for you. If he or she craves the outdoors, then read on!

4 Ready-to-Shoot Out-of-the-Box Rifle/Scope Combos We Love

Take most of the time and effort out of buying and mounting a scope with these rifle/scope packages.

The Truth About Knives for Self-Defense

If you’re going to carry a knife as a self-defense tool, you need to understand some critical considerations.

The Armed Citizen® January 30, 2026

There is only one way to respond if a mother is home alone at night with her baby—and an intruder breaks in.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.