Spotlight on Araoujo

This year has seen the rise of our BJJ purple belt phenom Araoujo Cutabiala. Starting in March with the PJJ Kumite, Araoujo grabbed some highlight reel subs and beat some of the toughest no gi grapplers in the country. 

This summer he then became EMPIRE no-gi BJJ lightweight champion in Scotland. All eyes were on the Elite No-Gi Lightweight (-73.5kgs) Grand Prix — and Araujo (@araujocutabiala) delivered in spectacular fashion.

Against a stacked field of some of the best BJJ competitors in the UK, Araujo put on a flawless run, showcasing impressive technical precision, skill and athleticism.

By the end of the day, he was crowned the Empire Elite No-Gi BJJ Lightweight Champion 👑 — and he didn’t drop a single match on his way to gold. An epic performance from a rising BJJ champion.

A Champion’s Mindset

We’ve seen Araujo’s work ethic on the mats for some time, and this victory is no accident — it’s the result of years of dedication.  Araoujo is one of the hardest working guys in the sport Jiu Jitsu, and we think he is destined for big things.

His performance at Empire proved what we already knew: he’s one of the top No-Gi talents in the UK and Europe, and he’s only just getting started.

What’s Next?

With the Lightweight title now around his waist, the division is officially on notice. The chase for the crown has begun, and we know Araujo will be ready for any challenger who steps up.

From everyone at Progress Jiu Jitsu, congratulations to Araujo on an incredible achievement. We’re proud to have him representing the team and can’t wait to see how he performs at ADCC trials next month.