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The Chicago Summer Open is set to draw strong talent this weekend. Between belt debuts and proven veterans, fans have much to celebrate in Chicago. The event is headlined by black belt Gi and No-Gi athletes who are poised to deliver fantastic action. The Midwest event will witness over 1,400 master, adult, and kid athletes challenge themselves on the mats this weekend. Lets take a look at the most anticipated athletes and noteworthy storylines.

 

Will Wilson

2025 Los Angeles Summer Open | Lightweight Semi-Final

The Marcio Andre representative is set to headline the lightweight Gi division in Chicago. The jiu-jitsu world last saw Will compete in the middleweight division in Honolulu where he captured the gold medal before adding open class silver to his bag. The young prospect has consistently provided noteworthy outings throughout his rookie campaign, while his most significant event resulted in a 2026 European Championship title. Will has a single opponent in his weight division, leaving many to hope for an open class enrollment at the Chicago Summer Open.

 

Eduardo Avelar

2025 Chicago Summer Open | Middleweight Final

Eduardo Avelar is registered for middleweight Gi and No-Gi competition in Chicago this weekend. The Molinaro Jiu-Jitsu athlete has secured five gold medals between Gi and No-Gi divisions in 20226, including his recent American National No-Gi triumph. The now three-time American National No-Gi Champion and two-time Pan No-Gi medalist will have a tough road through the deepest black belt No-Gi division at the event. Eduardo has consistently shown improvement throughout his black belt career and certainly has his eyes fixed atop the podium this weekend. 

 

Hazel Rose 

2026 Brasileiro | Brown Belt Highlight

Alliance boasts one of the most anticipated black belt newcomers in jiu-jitsu. Hazel Rose Butcher-Salazar completed a phenomenal brown belt career with triumphs at all four Grand Slam events. The outstanding prospect captured double-gold at Worlds, Pans, and Brasileiros while settling for heavyweight gold at the European Championships. The most impressive aspect is how Hazel earned her victories. Marked by composure, control, and elite technique, Hazel showcased the beautiful art with dynamic grace. Her black belt debut in Chicago signifies a new chapter in what projects to be a remarkable black belt career for Hazel.

 

David Garmo

2026 Detroit International Open

Detroit Jiu-Jitsu Syndicate standout David Garmo returns to the Open Circuit in Chicago. While David has not been quite as active in 2026, jiu-jitsu fans can expect his usual forward pressure and high energy. The former Brasileiro No-Gi Champion has proven his ability to contend with elite opponents, and will have to do so in the open class division in Chicago this weekend. David remains the sole competitor in the medium-heavyweight division but a significant threat to take home the open class title.

 

Julianna Wong

2026 Pan | Brown Belt Middleweight

While technically it may not be Julianna Wong’s black belt debut, it will be her first black belt match. The Action & Reaction representative took middleweight gold in Orlando just a couple of weeks ago, however, she remained the only athlete in her division. Julianna finished a wonderful color belt career that culminated in a 2026 Pan title. Her game features a well-balanced attack, highlighted by strong guard play and a knack for finding submission finishes. Julianna will be challenged by veteran middleweight athlete Carly Rangel, a significant test early in the career of a bright young prospect.

 

Joao Miyao 

2026 London Spring Open

The seasoned veteran returns to Master 1 Gi and No-Gi action in Chicago this weekend. Joao has secured Master 1 Brasileiro, Pan, and European titles in 2026, while he remains focused on the 2026 World Master event next month. The Cicero Costha athlete is a pillar of consistency in both activity and success. Joao has appeared in top form for the 2026 season, leading to significant excitement regarding his third consecutive World Master title pursuit.

 

Delia Kolanowski 

2026 Chicago Spring Open

An exciting No-Gi prospect in the medium-heavyweight division is registered for the Chicago Summer Open. Delia Kolanowski of Detroit Jiu-Jitsu Syndicate is currently the #3 ranked female No-Gi brown belt in the world. Delia is the lone medium-heavyweight competitor this weekend, undoubtedly leading to an open class enrollment from the strong prospect. 

 

Ethan Wong 

2026 Orlando Summer Open

Ethan Wong of Cicero Costha is set to commence just his second brown belt competition this weekend. The former blue belt World Champion and purple belt European and Pan bronze medalist has consistently showcased his technical prowess. The Chicago Summer Open is another opportunity for Ethan to improve his game and display his skill. The bright prospect is registered in the lightweight division alongside two fellow contenders.

 

Rana Muratoglu 

2026 Brasileiro No-Gi 

Molinaro Jiu-Jitsu boasts the #4 ranked Gi and No-Gi female purple belt in the world. Rana Muratoglu has consistently showcased elite skills on the international stage. A Pan and European Championship silver medalist in 2026, and the reigning Brasileiro No-Gi Champion is set to take the mats in Chicago this weekend.

 

Stay tuned to official IBJJF Channels to receive up-to-date results on all the weekend's action.