5 Things You Might Not Know About Kron Gracie

With three stoppages in as many fights, Kron Gracie has proven to be a force in Rizin Fighting Federation. He also has a prior submission finish at Real Fighting Championship, and now it’s time to prove his worth at the biggest stage of them all.

“Ice Cream Kron” will face Alex Caceres in his debut Ultimate Fighting Championship bout this weekend at UFC on ESPN 1. Let’s get to know more about the Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion.

1. Skateboarding is his first love.

Before rediscovering and focusing on jiu-jitsu, Gracie could be seen doing ollies and kickflips in the streets of Los Angeles. He was so into it that he considered going all-out. A talented skater, he was good enough to have attracted skate shop sponsors. He’s also had his fair share of injuries, having broken both his ankles twice by age 12. He also injured his wrist before a tournament at the Bowl in Venice Beach.

2. His late brother inspired him to shift his focus on jiu-jitsu.

After having his ankles broken, his elder brother Rockson told him to give 100 percent in whatever activity he chooses to do, may it be skating or jiu-jitsu. Since he was part of the Gracie family, his brother reminded him that he is lucky enough to have access to top-quality training if he chose to go down that path. When his brother died, Kron felt like it was his mission to continue the family tradition.

3. He loves the ocean.

Taking a dip at the ocean is another thing Gracie does to relax. A member of the North Shore Cartel, he makes it a point to surf amid his hectic training schedule. He likes to do so in both North Shore and Brazil. While he enjoys surfing, it’s the feeling of being in the ocean that invigorates him.

4. His interesting nickname.

“Ice Cream” probably has the same effect as “Cupcake” in that it doesn’t exactly elicit fear. Gracie doesn’t need it to anyway. His motto is “Keep cool under pressure,” which is printed on the wall at the Kron Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Culver City, California. As such, he’s known for his calm demeanor, whether it’s grappling on the mats or fighting inside the cage. This has brought him to the highest levels in jiu-jitsu, and only time will tell if it will translate to his MMA career.

5. He’s found a unique way to get a good night’s sleep.

It is common for combat sports practitioners to have difficulty sleeping after an intense training session. When you’re still fired up after practice and things are going through your head, sleeping can be tough. However, Gracie has found his way around it. He indulges in edibles like chocolate bars, which allows him to “pass out” for 12 hours, and when he gets up, he feels fully recovered and ready for another day of training.