For the second time in 2023, the IBJJF returned to Houston, Texas for the Houston Fall International Open. The event took place at the Leonard E. Merrell Center in Katy, Texas and had divisions for kids, adults, and masters athletes.

Carlos Henrique was the standout athlete of the event as he competed both with and without the gi. Though he normally competes in the lightweight division, Carlos went all the way up to super heavyweight with the gi on. He won his only match in the division and moved on to the open class, where he won three more fights to take double gold.

“I’m happy with my result but I’m not surprised by anything that’s been happening regarding my results this season. I’ve been much more focused on no-gi and I’m evolving with the gi but it’s not my main focus right now. My plan yesterday was just to compete in the category with gi because I wasn’t training with gi. But I decided to compete in the open category to test myself and the result was that I managed to become champion in the super heavy and open class categories.” Carlos would also go on to compete without the gi, winning gold at middleweight and taking silver in the open class.

Gracie Barra’s Pedro Marinho helped the team win first place without the gi as he won both the heavyweight and open class divisions. Pedro used his excellent takedowns and top game to go 5-0 in Houston.

2023 Houston Fall Open team results:

1. Gracie Barra

2. BJJ Revolution Team

3. GF Team Jiu Art

2023 Houston Fall No-Gi Open team results:

1. Gracie Barra

2. Alliance

3. Double Five