IBJJF Absolute No Gi Grand Prix -  Kaynan showed why he is one of the best in the world winning in a stacked bracket. He called out Meragali post-fight. Hopefully we can see the rematch soon! The event also featured a handful of superfights. Tainan Dalpra and Kade Rutolo won their matches at the top of the card. It was great to see Dalpra back in action, hopefully we can see him against the top talent in the world at events like ADCC 2024. It was the black belt debut in the gi for Kade. Exciting as ever, can’t wait to watch him go toe to toe with the best at Worlds in June.

 

IBJJF Pan Championship 2024-  Another classic event with some cool story lines, especially with the world championship right around the corner. Kennedy Maciel was back in action, better than ever. A dominant performance at the tournament was capped off with a win over Fabricio Andrey in the finals. Mica Galvao was crowned champion, a run which included a victory over the Atos ace Andy Murasaki. Gabi Pessanha kept her win streak alive and well with her gold medal run. Who's counting BUT, that's now 119 in a row. Huge congrats to Progress athlete Peyton Letcher who took home a bronze medal in her brown belt division. Also, big respect to our athlete Florian who represented in the black belt division and showed why everyone should pay attention to the BJJ scene in Belgium.

 

ADCC South American Trials- These events have really turned into some of the most exciting of the year. With so many amazing grapplers in the mix. It is impossible to guess who will walk away with the gold medal and a trip to the big show. This year was especially special because of the mix of new talent trying to make a name for themselves and veterans returning to the scene for another shot at ADCC gold. At the first trial, 15 year old Kaua Gabriel made the news with his 4th place finish. An epic run which included some of the best matches of the competition. Certainly a name to watch in the future. Veteran Charles Negromante was crowned champion at 88KG. His run included a victory over Dream Art leader, Isaque Bahiense. Kennedy Maciel smashed it at 66KG winning three of six with submissions.
   The second trials kept the excitement rolling with Ana Rodrigues taking home gold and punching her ticket to her first ADCC. Pedro Marinho used his world class guillotine to ensure he would make it to his 3rd ADCC. Fabricio Andrey continued his good form and excited the fans during his journey to the top of the podium. Ana Vieira was stellar, winning her four matches all by submission.

 

Also, big shout outs to Ffion Davies, Christopher Ozbek and Cam Donnelly for representing Polaris. Ffion picked up a win and another belt to add to her collection. Christopher displayed beautiful throws which helped him achieve a win and one of the best matches of the night.