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2026 IBJJF Crown Announcement

The 2026 Crown is building a phenomenal list of athletes for its fourth edition. Forty-eight world-class competitors will converge inside the famous Long Beach Pyramid on November 8th with hopes of securing one of the most sought after trophies in the sport, as well as the $20,000 cash prize.

Sam ‘Samurai’ Nagai is the latest featherweight athlete to be officially included in the 2026 Crown. Sam joins an outstanding division that already includes João ‘Bisnaga’ Mendes, Will Wilson, Ademir Barreto, Keven Carrasco, Mateo Cardona, and Jun Yong Cho.

Sam Nagai - The Samurai’s Return

Sam Nagai is an exciting talent of Inevat Jiu-Jitsu. The former World Champion and reigning Worlds runner-up has accumulated extensive experience across the sport’s premier competitions. Now Sam prepares to return to the Pyramid for an opportunity to claim his second Crown title.

Sam secured the inaugural featherweight Crown title in 2023 and accepted this year’s invitation with hopes of becoming the first two-time featherweight champion. Sam is a dynamic and technical competitor who consistently delivers thrilling bouts. His style emphasizes forward pressure and highlight-worthy submissions. Take a look at this 2025 Asian Championship match that showcases his relentless pace and finishing ability.

The featherweight division is notoriously stacked. For Sam to reclaim the Crown throne that was once his, he must outlast a field consisting of World Champions, rising prospects, and proven veterans.

The event is scheduled for November 8th from the prestigious Pyramid in Long Beach, California. Stay tuned to official IBJJF channels for continued updates surrounding the 2026 IBJJF Crown.