The 30th anniversary of the World Championships celebrated legendary athletes and historic moments from three decades of prestigious competition. The 2026 edition presented a collection of elite athletes vying for World titles amidst an intense atmosphere at the famed Pyramid in Long Beach, California. Each division displayed incredible action and crowned World Champions with the jiu-jitsu community fully focused on the storied event.

 

Male Divisions

Roosterweight

The 127lb division exhibited the world-class competition that underscores the highlight event of the year. As one of the most anticipated weight classes of the event, each athlete fought with the intensity and technique that excites fans worldwide. Jalen Fonacier entered the World Championships as the defending roosterweight champion with the intention of retaining his throne. Jalen commenced his campaign with a three match run on day 1 that proved his true talent. The Alliance star secured three submissions in the opening day of black belt action, showcasing his remarkable guard play and finishing capabilities amidst high-level opponents. Entering the finals day Jalen was tasked with competing against two athletes that shared his World title intentions under the brightest lights. Jalen ultimately proved his ability to capture victories via strategy and tactics, a skillset which is necessary to overcome elite athletes on the biggest stage. The Alliance competitor secured a semifinal victory over Yuri Hendrex via points, setting up a highly-anticipated final against Thalison Soares, a former World Champion. Jalen utilized a straight footlock submission to earn the advantage lead, putting pressure on his AOJ opponent to respond on the scoreboard. Jalen ultimately controlled Thalison with time elapsing, securing an advantage victory and his second consecutive World title. The twenty year old phenom has commenced his adult black belt career with European, Pan, and a pair of World Championship titles that has the jiu-jitsu community in fascination regarding his bright future. His professor, Cobrinha Maciel, summarized his protege’s performance as a culmination of nearly two decades of sacrifice and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Jalen Fonacier proved his world-class ability and mindset under the pressure of the World Championship event for a second consecutive year, undoubtedly leading to further excitement surrounding the young athlete’s future competitive endeavors. 

 

Light-Featherweight

Diego Pato of AOJ captured the light-featherweight spotlight with a historic performance. The star athlete captured his record fifth World Championship title, surpassing Robson Moura and his professor Gui Mendes as the winningest light-featherweight champion of all-time. Pato punched his ticket to the second day of the black belt World Championship competition with a pair of lapel chokes on the first day. The AOJ star returned to action on finals day with a fascinating calf-slicer finish before taking out Khaled Mohammad in the World Championship finals with a dominant nine-point victory. In an unexpected turn of events, Pato laid down his black belt on the World finals mat, signifying his retirement from the event after years of sacrifice and success at the highest level of the sport. Pato’s legacy supersedes titles and high-profile victories, as a technical innovator and fascinating personality that will be sorely missed from further World Championship events. The legendary athlete completed the 2026 season with European, Pan, and World Championship titles, adding another incredible year to his illustrious career. At an event that celebrated past champions and icons of the sport, Pato cemented his status as one of the all-time greats with his fifth World Championship title. 

 

Featherweight

Another AOJ standout secured his first World Championship title in Long Beach this weekend. Cole Abate, the world-renowned athlete who has been in the center of the jiu-jitsu community’s spotlight since his juvenile days, secured his breakthrough moment at the highest level of the sport. Cole displayed his technical prowess with a pair of victories over high-level opponents on day 1 of the black belt competition. He returned to finals day with a win over the reigning featherweight World Champion,  Joao ‘Bisnaga’ Mendes, before facing off with Sam Nagai in the finals. Cole’s ability to capture various stylistic victories is one of the most astounding aspects of his game. The young star has proven his ability to fight dynamically and secure submission victories, and has also displayed the strategic prowess to defeat elite athletes such as Sam Nagai. Most impressively, Cole has showcased immense resolve in handling the unique pressure and expectations that come with competition success at a young age. His first World title was undoubtedly a momentous moment in the young athlete’s iconic career. 

 

Lightweight

The lightweight division was one of the most anticipated weight classes of the entire event. Matheus Gabriel of CheckMat entered as the reigning World Champion, however, his inactivity within the last year raised questions about his prospective performance. Matheus responded with an electric World title performance that included three submission finishes and the phenomenal technique he has become renowned for. Matheus secured three victories including a beautiful armbar finish on day 1 of black belt competition, securing his ticket to finals day competition. The CheckMat standout continued to deliver thrilling performances on his second day of competition, with a points win over Romulo Rocha and a finals submission against Jackson Nagai. Matheus remains the top lightweight in the world, despite setbacks that have plagued his illustrious career. Reconstructive knee surgery and a serious shoulder injury took the CheckMat star out of competition in the midst of his prime, but set up an amazing return to glory that showcases his admirable resolve. Throughout the 2026 World Championships Matheus displayed strategic and technical prowess that has many anticipating a more active 2027 season. Matheus stated his intentions of competing at the European Championships in January, which creates an interesting narrative surrounding a potential Grand Slam title pursuit next year. 

 

Middleweight

Tainan Dalpra continued his middleweight domination at the 2026 World Championships. The AOJ star delivered an incredible performance to capture his fourth World title and the global jiu-jitsu spotlight. Through four matches against world-class competition, Tainan secured four submission finishes totalling just six minutes of mat time. His World Championship run is undoubtedly one of the most dominant Worlds performances of all-time, further cementing his legacy as one of the most skilled athletes in the sport’s history. Tainan displayed his strong sweeping ability from bottom, however, his passing pressure truly defined his middleweight dominance. The AOJ athlete beautifully blends outside passing with close-distance techniques to create back exposure and set up his deep submission arsenal. The 2026 season has proven to be a special campaign for Tainan who became the first male athlete to earn two Grand Slam titles, and finished the season with his fourth World title. 

 

Medium-Heavyweight

The medium-heavyweight division welcomed the returning champion back to Worlds competition. Jansen Gomes of CheckMat returned to the blue and yellow mats after a year long absence following his 2025 World title. Jansen appeared to be in top form on day one of black belt action, securing two submission finishes and a commanding points victory over Rui Alves in the quarterfinals. The CheckMat phenom returned to the mats on finals day with a clear intention, a third World Championship title. After defeating Gabriel Galvao in the semifinals, Jansen went on to take out Enderson Dias via lapel choke to clinch the gold medal. Throughout his five match run Jansen dazzled the audience with the dynamic movement he has become known for. His outside passing and back attacks underscored the elite level of the CheckMat athlete and resulted in some of the most exciting matches of the entire event. With his standout performance, Jansen secured his third World title and vowed to maintain a more active 2027 season. Stay tuned to the IBJJF Podcast for an interview with Jansen Gomes as he details his World Championship performance, his perspective and mindset on high-level competition, and his life off the mats.

 

Heavyweight

A first-time World Champion reigned supreme in the male heavyweight division at the 2026 World Championships. Rider Zuchi of Team 6 BJJ earned his breakout moment with a fantastic four-match run against world-class competition. Rider defeated Tanaka Taisei in his opening round match via lapel choke from the back before taking out Francisco Papasidero in the quarterfinals. Rider commenced his second day of action with an upset victory over the division favorite, Leo Ferreira, in a tightly contested match. The Team 6 athlete went on to face Nico Maglicic, the reigning No-Gi World Champion in the weight division, with a World title hanging in the balance. Ultimately, Rider’s back taking ability was the difference maker in the finals, resulting in a four-point win and his first black belt World title. In an emotional moment for many, Rider immediately asked for a moment of silence in the Pyramid for his late friend and professor, Leandro Lo. Rider has cemented himself as a world-class heavyweight competitor who stated his goal of pursuing Grand Slam triumph in 2027. 

 

Super-Heavyweight

A pair of Soldiers Jiu-Jitsu athletes controlled the super-heavyweight division. Erich Munis and Vinicius Liberati delivered a similar performance to their 2026 Brasileiro outing, where Vinicius secured the title over Erich. Vincius showcased his physicality, strategy, and technique en route to claiming three victories and his first World title. His title run commenced with a dominant three-minute lapel choke finish over Kalum Klausner in the quarterfinals. The Soldiers athlete continued on to face a very game Windson Torres in the semifinals, proving Vincius’ spectacular x-guard sweeping system. After capturing the two-point victory, he went on to defeat Erich Munis in the finals to claim his inaugural Worlds gold. Vinicius ends the 2026 season with European, Brasileiro, and World titles in the most dominant campaign of his young career.

 

Ultra-Heavyweight

Seif-Eddine Houmine of GF Team captured the World spotlight in the ultra-heavyweight division. Seif entered the event with World title aspirations after claiming Pan and European Championship gold medals this season. Seif advanced past Pablo Batista in the opening round, and secured a come-from-behind victory over Alexandre Manara in the quarterfinals. Seif showcased his unwavering resolve after finding himself in bottom side-control while down five points. Seif reclaimed top position and finished his opponent with knee-on-belly pressure to secure his place on the podium. The GF Team representative squared off against Anderson Kauan, in a rematch from the 2026 Pan finals, resulting in a referee decision victory in favor of Seif. Gutenberg Pereira awaited Seif for a highly-anticipated finals match in the ultra-heavyweight division. Seif ultimately proved to be too much, capturing a punch-choke finish with just thirty seconds left. His triumph marks him as one of only two African born World Champions in IBJJF Worlds history. The ultra-heavyweight champion laid down his black belt on the Worlds mats, signifying the end of a remarkable career as a two-time World Champion. 

 

Open Class

Erich Munis reigned supreme in the male black belt open class division, securing the seventh World title of his illustrious career. The Soldiers Jiu-Jitsu athlete defeated Krom Tsuyoshi via armbar in the opening round. Erich then squared off with the dangerous Mateus Rodrigues in the quarterfinals, where he captured a lapel choke finish in just over six minutes of action. Anderson Kauan met Erich in the semifinals, resulting in a dominant eleven-point arm-triangle choke in just over two-minutes. The absolute final between Erich and Marcus ‘Scooby’ Ribeiro drew immense attention ahead of day two action, as the elite athletes prepared to test their skills with a World title on the line. After ten minutes of intense action, with both athletes securing sweeps and attacking submissions, Erich Munis claimed the two-point victory. Scooby earned his second podium placement of the day, and challenged the top-rank athlete in the world fiercely. Ultimately, Erich’s renowned guard play proved to be the difference-maker in an exciting match that underscored the supreme talent in the absolute division. Erich’s seventh World Championship title stands as a remarkable accomplishment for the Soldier’s Jiu-Jitsu star.

 

Female Divisions

Roosterweight

The winningest roosterweight World Champion of all-time rejoined the prestigious event intent on capturing her seventh consecutive World title. Mayssa Bastos of AOJ not only succeeded in her endeavors this weekend, but did so with the most dominant performance of her storied career. Mayssa commenced her run with a lapel choke from the back in the quarterfinals against Melody Wong. The AOJ phenom then challenged a familiar foe in Mariana Rolszt of Gracie Humaita in the semifinals. Mayssa displayed incredible guardplay and her efficient berimbolo system to secure thirteen points before finishing the match with a rear-naked-choke. Returning to action on day two of black belt competition, Mayssa squared off with Jessica Caroline in the roosterweight finals. Mayssa utilized a beautiful arm-drag setup from a lasso position to create back exposure and begin her finishing sequences. In just over two minutes Mayssa captured the lapel choke finish to claim her seventh World Championship title and remain undefeated in black belt competition at the event. Mayssa has maintained her dominant form for seven consecutive years against the globe’s top talent, proving herself to be a generational talent. 

 

Light-Featherweight

The reigning light-featherweight World Champion, Mia Funegra, made a move to the featherweight division in pursuit of her second World title, opening the door for her twin-sister, Ashlee Funegra, to compete at her first black belt Worlds. Ashlee entered the event with an undefeated record at the black belt level with triumphs at both the European and Brasileiro events in 2026. Ashlee’s strong top control led to a lapel choke finish in the opening round of light-featherweight competition. The AOJ phenom continued on to defeat Yasmin Castro in the quarterfinals via armbar after earning ten unanswered points. Ashlee ended her day one competition against a tough semifinal opponent in Andressa Guirau. The young AOJ athlete again utilized her passing technique to create back exposure and ultimately finish a lapel choke submission in under three minutes. A single sweep in the finals earned Ashlee Funegra her first World Championship title in what projects to be a long and successful black belt career. In one year as a black belt Ashlee has not tasted defeat, claiming No-Gi World Championship, European, Brasileiro, and World Championship titles. The nineteen year old star has made a resounding statement in her rookie season at the highest level, drawing comparisons to some of the greatest female champions in the sport. Visit the official IBJJF Podcast page to witness a unique interview with Mia and Ashlee Funegra as they provide insights on training at AOJ, their journey to black belt competition, and life off the mats. Ashlee Funegra has asserted herself as one of the most promising young black belts in the sport and a name that is sure to top the podium at major events in the future.

 

Featherweight

Fight Sports representative, Sabrina Gondim, earned the featherweight title at the 2026 World Championships. Sabrina utilized her strong guard passing pressure to secure an advantage victory in the opening round of competition. She proceeded to take on the top-seed Mia Funegra in a highly-anticipated quarterfinal matchup. The two elite athletes delivered one of the most electrifying fights of the entire event, as the two talented females traded attacks until the very end. The most defining moment of the match came at the five minute mark, when Sabrian passed her World Champion opponent’s guard to take the lead. The final few minutes resulted in high-intensity action with Sabrina defending her lead with strong standing ability and top-control. The three point victory punched Sabrina’s ticket into the semifinals to face Giovanah Oliveira, another young athlete with immense talent. After ten minutes of hard-fought action, Sabrina earned the referee decision and a finals placement on day two of black belt competition. The Fight Sports athlete was tasked with facing another former World Champion in Gabi McComb in the finals. Sabrina struck first with a guard pass one minute into the match, marking the second time she passed a World Champion’s guard at the event. Her top control proved to be too much for Gabi to overcome, as Sabrina secured her first World title via three-point victory. Sabrina’s triumph underscores her formidable mindset and unwavering confidence as the number eight seed in an extremely tough bracket. 

 

Lightweight

The female lightweight division presented eight competitors of distinct talent. The top-seed and reigning World Champion in the division, Janaina Lebre, returned to the prestigious event with intentions of reclaiming her throne. The Alliance athlete entered the tournament with a clear gameplan of showcasing her incredible guard play and dangerous footlock submission arsenal. Janaina secured her opening round victory over Mayara Melo via straight ankle lock in under two minutes. She proceeded to take on Giovanna Parmisano in the semifinals, again proving her finishing ability with a second straight ankle lock victory. Janaina’s success on day one of black belt competition set up a fascinating rematch against Sarah Galvao, who had previously bested Janaina on two finals occasions. The two athletes traded attacks with Janaina beginning the fight on top, and ending with strong guard play. After ten minutes of hard-fought action, the referee decision favored Janaina resulting in her second consecutive lightweight World Championship title. The Alliance representative proved her ability to win high-pace matches and strategic matches alike, signifying her status as a veteran World Champion athlete. 

 

Middleweight

The middleweight division offered twenty-one competitors vying for World Championship glory. Lillian Marchand of Atos Jiu-Jitsu entered the event as the #4 seed and reigning Pan Champion. Lillian commenced her run with a lapel choke from the back over Gabriele Schuck in the opening round. The Atos athlete advanced into the quarterfinals for a tough match that proved her resilience and sweeping ability to claim a two point victory. Her final match of day one competition resulted in an advantage victory over Emily Ferreira to earn a middleweight finals placement on day two action. Lillian was tasked with facing Elisabeth Clay, a familiar foe who each claimed a 2026 major event finals victory over the other. Lillian earned the Pan title with an armbar finish over Elisabeth, setting up a Brasileiro final rematch in which Elisabeth secured a toe hold finish. The rubber match between the two elite athletes garnered well-deserved recognition as a potential standout match for the middleweight World title. The world-class athletes stifled each other's game, with Lillian working towards a guard pass while remaining weary of her opponent’s elite leg lock arsenal. In the end, it was an early penalty for guard pulling against Elisabeth Clay that made the difference. Lillian Marchand secured the World title, becoming a No-Gi and Gi World Champion in her rookie season at the highest echelon. The Atos athlete displayed strong technique, strategy, and athleticism to outlast a stacked middleweight division. The ceiling continues to rise for the young Canadian, as she builds a phenomenal resume early in her career.

 

Medium-Heavyweight

Thamara Ferreira of UAE Jiu-Jitsu Team returned to the prestigious World Championship event after claiming the title in the past two editions. Thamara’s game features strong top pressure in combination with unique athleticism to constantly push the pace. Her style was on full display in the opening round as she racked up twelve unanswered points to claim the victory. Thamara then faced Izzadora Cristina in the semifinals, again showcasing her aggressive style and world-class technique to earn a seven point victory. With her finals placement secured, Thamara refocused on Ingridd Alves, an experienced and talented competitor at the highest level. Through ten minutes of action, Thamara imposed her will and captured a two-advantage victory. The UAE Jiu-Jitsu athlete ended the match while attacking both back exposure and submission systems, cementing herself as a three time medium-heavyweight World Champion. The division remains under the control of Thamara who continues to showcase her ability to outlast world-class opponents under the brightest lights. 

 

Heavyweight

Eight athletes enlisted in the female heavyweight division, including the reigning World Champion Larissa Dias. The Elementum Jiu-Jitsu standout had clear intentions of claiming her third World title amidst a collection of dangerous contenders. Her opening round matchup against Maria Ruffatto-Gilpin resulted in a six-point tarikoplata finish in dominant fashion. Larissa went on to face Yara Soares in the semifinals, which marked a rematch from the 2025 World finals. Larissa was able to latch onto a tight toe hold from the single-leg-x position, ending the match in under eight minutes. With a pair of submissions heading into black belt finals day, expectations were high for the Elementum athlete to continue her dominant run. She was faced with challenging Maria Alencar, a promising rookie black belt from Atos Jiu-Jitsu. Larissa immediately pulled to guard and began pursuing sweeping opportunities, while Maria maintained strong top control. Eventually Larissa entered into her opponents legs and was able to secure a second toe hold finish in under four minutes of competition. Larissa submitted each of the three opponents that stood in her way of claiming her third World Championship title, cementing herself as one of the top contemporary athletes in the sport. 

 

Super-Heavyweight

The ten time World Champion and top-ranked global female athlete, Gabi Pessanha, returned to the Pyramid to make history in 2026. Gabi entered the event tied with Bea Mesquita for the most female World Championship titles, resulting in distinct attention surrounding both her weight class and open division competition. Gabi commenced her super-heavyweight run with a thirty-second leglock finish over Simone Abreu in the semifinals. Tayane Porfirio of Alliance also made it to the finals, as the only athlete in the super-heavyweight division with a prior victory over Gabi. The Infight Jiu-Jitsu star was able to utilize her stellar guard passing and stifling top pressure to earn nine points en route to claiming her eleventh World title. Gabi is known for her world-class straight ankle lock finishing ability, which makes her passing prowess against a former World Champion opponent all the more impressive. With the win, Gabi became the winningest female World Champion of all time, surpassing the iconic Bea Mesquita in the record books. 

 

Open Class

The open class division had been one of the major storylines of the 2026 gi season. Gabi Pessanha and Sara Galvao had met in the finals of all three major events, delivering thrilling bouts and capturing the global jiu-jitsu spotlight. The Worlds absolute division presented elite athletes who had not competed in the 2026 season thus far, creating new storylines and intense matchups. Gabi Pessanha met the eventual middleweight champion, Lillian Marchand, in the quarterfinals for the third time this season. Lillian was able to deliver her best performance against the Infight standout, however, Gabi’s pressure proved to be overwhelming as she secured a four-point victory. She went on to face Maria Ruffatto-Gilpin in the semifinals, resulting in a straight ankle lock submission finish in just over two minutes. Gabi returned to the absolute finals against a familiar opponent in Tayane Porfirio, whom she had beaten just minutes earlier in the super-heavyweight finals. Their absolute showdown witnessed a much more competitive match, with just two points deciding the difference. In the end it was Gabi Pessanha who reigned supreme again, tying the great Marcus Buchecha for the most absolute titles of all-time. For six consecutive years Gabi has claimed both super-heavyweight and absolute titles, while maintaining an undefeated record at the most competitive event of the year. Her consistency and talent at the highest level is unprecedented, leading her to a historic 2026 World Championship performance filled with record breaking victories.