For the first time in over four years, the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation returned to New York for the New York Open. The event was held at the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex for the first time and had great energy throughout from both competitors and spectators.

Felipe Cesar Silva had an excellent campaign, taking gold in the medium-heavy division in the gi with two victories and winning the no-gi open class with three more victories. Felipe commented on his performance in New York. “In the gi I had two fights in my division and the final was very hard. I was losing by two advantages. In the last minute I berimboloed the guy and scored three advantages and I won in the last minute with all my teammates yelling for me and giving me the energy to win. In the no-gi open class I fought the semifinal with Gianni Grippo, a super strong and dangerous featherweight. I passed, turning him on all fours and getting his back plus a take down. I was feeling great to fight in my home city with all my friends around after a long time without a New York Open."

Two other athletes who have lived and competed on the east coast for years also took gold in New York. Matheus Diniz of Alliance Marcelo Garcia won his only match in the gi at super heavyweight. Gianni Grippo took gold in the no-gi featherweight division, defeating two tough opponents to get the job done.

Heitor Senra of R1NG BJJ and Mayara Custódio of CheckMat were the absolute champions in the gi. Heitor won three matches and Mayara won her only match of the day.

2023 New York Open team results:

1. Renzo Gracie Academy

2. Unity Jiu-Jitsu

3. R1NG BJJ

2023 New York No-Gi Open team results:

1. Unity Jiu-Jitsu

2. Atos Jiu-Jitsu

3. Alliance Marcelo Garcia