Sarah Galvão and Andy Murasaki Win Double Gold: Highlights from the 2025 Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship
From new black belts to double gold champions, the 2025 Asian Championship delivered unforgettable moments.
The 14th edition of the IBJJF Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship took place from June 19th to June 22nd at the Chiba Port Arena in Chiba, Japan. Over the course of four action-packed days, the event once again proved its growing significance on the international jiu-jitsu calendar, drawing elite competitors from across the globe who put on a world-class display of technique.
Among the most impressive storylines from the weekend were the double gold performances from Atos standouts Sarah Galvão and Andy Murasaki. Sarah, who was recently promoted to black belt after capturing gold at the 2025 World Championships as a brown belt, made her black belt debut one to remember. She showcased the aggressive, submission-oriented style that has defined her rise through the ranks, finishing four of her five opponents on her way to winning both her weight class and the open class divisions.
Her teammate Andy Murasaki was equally dominant. Competing in the middleweight division, Murasaki tore through the bracket with pressure and precision, submitting four opponents en route to gold. In the open class, he added five more matches to his run, submitting four and defeating super heavyweight Igor Tanabe in a thrilling final by points. Murasaki’s ability to implement his signature style against bigger and stronger opponents once again solidified his status as one of the sport’s top pound-for-pound athletes.
Team AOJ also had plenty to celebrate in Chiba. Ashlee Funegra, newly promoted to black belt after the 2025 Worlds, made her debut alongside her sister and reigning World Champion Mia Funegra. The siblings both won two matches in the featherweight division, with Ashlee taking gold. Their success helped lead AOJ to a first-place finish in the adult female team standings, bolstered by standout performances from Lauren Sognefest and Mayssa Bastos, who secured gold and silver, respectively, in the light featherweight division.
In the lightweight division, Sam Nagai of CheckMat became the champion. Competing at the Asian Championship as a black belt for the first time, Nagai submitted all three of his opponents, displaying the aggression and sharp transitions he’s become known for.
Another name that made waves was Mikael Rhaillander of FPK Apex Jiu-Jitsu. Competing in the medium-heavyweight division, Mikael submitted all three of his opponents via armbar, including one particularly stunning finish via flying armbar that has become on e of his signature moves.
With a growing reputation for showcasing emerging talent and high-level competition, the 2025 Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship cemented its status as one of the most exciting stops on the global circuit. As the level of competition continues to rise, so too does the anticipation for what the next edition will bring.
2025 Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship – Team Results
Adult Male
1. Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu
2. CheckMat
3. Atos Jiu-Jitsu
Adult Female:
1. AOJ
2. Carpe Diem Mita
3. Atos Jiu-Jitsu
Juvenile:
1. Carlos Toyota BJJ Academy
2. Gracie Barra
3. Evox BJJ
Masters:
1. Paraestra
2. CheckMat
3. Tri-Force Jiu-Jitsu Academy
Novice:
1. John Frankl Jiu-Jitsu
2. Carpe Diem Mita
3. Paraestra