Rigan Machado recently shared insights on the BSC podcast about one of his most dedicated celebrity students, Ashton Kutcher. The Hollywood actor’s progress in Brazilian jiu jitsu was not accidental. It was built on a foundation that gave him a clear advantage from the start.
When asked about students who stood out during his years training celebrities, Machado immediately highlighted Kutcher.
“Ashton was very easy because before doing jiu jitsu, he was a very good wrestler with a scholarship in wrestling.”
At approximately 6’3″ and nearly 200 lbs (91 kg), Kutcher brought athletic credentials that set him apart from typical beginners.
However, the transition was not without challenges. Machado noted that Kutcher’s wrestling background created one specific obstacle.
“He already liked to fig ht, but he didn’t like to put his back on the floor. That’s a normal wrestler mentality.”
This aversion to being on one’s back is common among wrestlers who are trained to avoid that position at all costs. Machado’s approach was direct.
“I said, okay, I just need to upgrade him and teach him how to fi ght from his back.”
The legendary instructor, who has trained hundreds of Hollywood figures including the late Paul Walker, spoke with genuine affection about Kutcher.
“Ashton Kutcher is one of my favorite people in the world. We’ve known each other for over 15 years now. He just got his black belt, and for me, I have only love and respect for the guy.”
Achieving a black belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu typically requires many years of dedicated training, unlike some martial arts where practitioners can reach that level in three to five years. Machado emphasized the importance of earning rank through genuine effort.
“You have to put your sweat and blood to be honored to have the belt.”
Kutcher’s 15-year journey to black belt reflects the commitment Machado values in his students. Throughout the interview, Machado stressed that his teaching philosophy extends beyond techniques.
“Today, with technology, you can go to YouTube or Instagram and learn a lot of stuff. You can see some of the best guys in the world teaching techniques online. But what I do, that you’re not able to watch in videos, is teach a person to be confident, to become a better person, to become a better father, to become a better husband, and to build better character.”