Carlson Gracie vs. Superman: The Fight We All Know Carlson Would Win

In 1978, DC Comics released Superman vs. Muhammad Ali, an iconic showdown where the heavyweight champion of the world proved that skill and strategy could overcome raw power—even when facing the Man of Steel himself. But what if the stakes were even higher? What if Superman fought not just a boxer, but a true master of leverage, control, and technique? What if Superman had to face Carlson Gracie, the man who revolutionized Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Let’s be clear: Carlson wouldn’t just win under a red sun, where Superman is stripped of his powers. No, we’re saying Carlson Gracie would beat Superman at full strength, under a bright yellow sun, with all his superpowers intact. Sounds crazy? Not if you understand the legend of Carlson Gracie.

Superman’s Strength vs. Carlson’s Jiu Jitsu

Superman may be able to fly, shoot heat vision, and lift mountains, but we’ve never seen him defend a single takedown. The truth is, raw power doesn’t mean much against flawless technique. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is built on the principle that a smaller, more technical fighter can defeat a larger, stronger opponent. Sure, Superman can throw a punch at the speed of light, but what happens when Carlson closes the distance and takes him to the ground?

Superman’s strength is only useful if he can use it, and that’s where Carlson’s strategy shines. Against even the most powerful opponents, Carlson knew how to impose his game. He’d weather the initial storm, find his opening, and take control. And let’s face it—if Superman got put in a tight side control, would he even know how to escape?

Superman’s Biggest Weakness: No Grappling Experience

For all his powers, Superman has never trained in grappling. He’s a striker at best—throwing punches, dodging lasers, and occasionally tossing villains through buildings. But grappling is a different world. If Carlson gets his hands on him, Superman won’t have the instincts to defend against a takedown, let alone escape a submission.

Think about it: Superman may be the strongest being in the universe, but when was the last time he practiced guard retention? Has he ever had to fight off a deep half guard sweep? If you don’t think Carlson could pass his guard, you’re underestimating the man who built one of the toughest, most technical teams in BJJ history.

Jiu Jitsu Always Finds a Way

The lesson here is simple: strength and power are great, but technique always wins in the end. Superman may be able to lift planets, but against Carlson Gracie, he wouldn’t last a round. Because at the end of the day, Superman is just another big, strong guy—and we all know how that ends when they step onto the mat with a true master of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

So the next time someone asks, “Who would win in a fight—Carlson Gracie or Superman?” you already know the answer. And if you don’t? Well, come to the mats, and let’s find out.