The 2025 Jiu-Jitsu CON is booked and set to be the biggest one yet, taking place from August 28th to 30th at the Las Vegas Convention Center. As the event prepares to celebrate its 10-year anniversary, it's worth looking back at how this convention has grown into the largest jiu-jitsu gathering in the world.

The Early Years: Evexia Fit Fest

The origins of Jiu-Jitsu CON trace back to 2015 when the IBJJF hosted its first-ever jiu-jitsu convention at the Cashman Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Initially named Evexia Fit Fest, the event aimed to appeal to a broader audience within the fitness community while also serving as the new home for the World Master Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

The inaugural Evexia Fit Fest occupied a 49,050 sq. ft. space and featured 14 competition mats, hosting approximately 2,300 competitors. Beyond the tournament action, the convention created a unique experience for attendees by offering free seminars led by some of the sport’s most accomplished champions. It also became a major industry event, attracting the biggest and most renowned brands in jiu-jitsu.

The Rise of the Absolute GP

One of the most anticipated additions to the convention was the Absolute Grand Prix, an elite 8-man tournament featuring some of the best competitors of the era. The first Absolute GP lineup included Marcus "Buchecha" Almeida, Leandro Lo, Xande Ribeiro, Andre Galvao, Marcio "Pe De Pano" Cruz, Joao Gabriel Rocha, Ricardo Evangelista, and Dimitrius Souza. Buchecha emerged victorious, later making history as a three-time GP champion.

The Transition to Jiu-Jitsu CON

In 2019, the event was rebranded as Jiu-Jitsu CON, shifting its focus entirely to strengthening the jiu-jitsu community. However, the pandemic delayed the first official Jiu-Jitsu CON until 2021. When it finally debuted under its new identity, the event became more than just a competition, it was a true gathering place for practitioners, fans, and industry leaders, celebrating the art and sport of jiu-jitsu.

Jiu-Jitsu CON 2024: Expanding the Experience

As the convention evolved, Jiu-Jitsu CON 2024 introduced even more attractions for fans. Daily seminars were expanded, and a unique live podcast-style experience called Jiu-Jitsu CON Talks was launched. This platform allowed fans, professors, and gym owners to learn from the industry's top leaders, covering topics such as business strategies, jiu-jitsu history, advanced techniques, and the mindset of a champion.

The 2025 Edition: The Biggest Jiu-Jitsu CON Yet

Now, in its 10th year, Jiu-Jitsu CON 2025 is set to break all previous records. Spanning over 450,000 sq. ft., the event will feature tournaments for all divisions, including masters, adults, juveniles, and kids. With over 50 competition mats, 10+ free seminars, and an expanded lineup of Jiu-Jitsu CON Talks, this year’s event promises to be the most immersive and engaging yet.

From its modest beginnings at the Cashman Center to its current status as the world's premier jiu-jitsu convention, Jiu-Jitsu CON has become an unmissable event for the global jiu-jitsu community. As it continues to grow, it remains a testament to the sport’s evolution and the passion of its practitioners worldwide.