In addition to the absolute bracket, the IBJJF Absolute Grand Prix will also include five incredible super fights. As the only brown belts who are part of the event, Eduardo “Dudu” Lima of CheckMat and Zach Kaina of AOJ will face off in a featherweight match. Eduardo and Zach are two of the most technical brown belts in the world, and have run into each other three times already in 2022. “We’ve fought three times and all were in 2022,” explained Eduardo. “Zach is a very technical and dangerous guy. I beat him all three times but it was tight. Since the last time we fought in the gi, I feel that my jiu-jitsu has evolved a lot and I’m sure this time I’ll be much more prepared for the show.” Eduardo is coming off an impressive gold medal performance at the 2022 Pan No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu Championships.

Eduardo has competed against Zach with and without the gi and although he’s gotten the win in all three of their matches, they’ve all been close and have played out differently. “Even though I’ve fought him before, our fights always run in different ways. I see it as another challenge to overcome in my jiu-jitsu journey and I’m ready to do that.” In addition to looking for the victory, Eduardo is also aiming to put on a great performance. “I am prepared to deliver the show that is expected by the organizers and people who are watching. I’m not only going to win but also to show what I’m capable of on the mat. You all can expect a really good performance next Friday. I’m excited for this.”

Eduardo’s technical style of jiu-jitsu and his performances at recent tournaments have earned him this spot on the IBJJF Absolute GP card. He shared his thoughts on being a part of this incredible event. “It means a lot to me. I’ve been working on my jiu-jitsu for a long time to show it on a different level in opportunities like this! I feel blessed to be one of the best.” Other athletes who will be competing in super fights include Jessa Khan, Andy Murasaki, and Jonnatas Gracie, among others.

The IBJJF Absolute GP is filled with great competitors and is a bracket Eduardo is excited to watch. “The card is insane with a lot of big name guys vying for the grand prize. My support goes to my teammate El Monstro. Whoever fights him will have to be well prepared physically and mentally, because he comes with everything to get the prize.” You can watch Eduardo along with the Absolute GP and the rest of the super fights on Friday November 18th on FloGrappling. The event is brought to you exclusively by Black Armor Kimonos.