On Saturday, September 16th, the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre played host to the eighth edition of the Toronto International Open, a highly anticipated event that showcased the skill of local Canadian athletes and athletes from around the world. With both impressive team performances and outstanding individual achievements, the Toronto Open was yet another example of the growth of jiu-jitsu in every part of the world.

In the gi divisions, the team that stood out and claimed the first place title was Jiu-Jitsu For Life Team, boasting a massive contingent of 100 athletes. Meanwhile, in the no-gi divisions, it was Atlas Jiu-Jitsu - BJJ Revolution Team that clinched the team title. Despite bringing a smaller squad, with just over 20 athletes, their results pushed them to the top spot on the podium.

The most remarkable individual performance of the Toronto Open came from none other than the Pan and Brasileiro Champion, Joao Gabriel Rocha. This ultra heavyweight had an exceptional day, competing both with and without the gi, where he managed to maintain his unbeaten streak in 2023.

Rocha shared his thoughts on his incredible day, stating, "I had 7 fights today between gi and no-gi. I got the submission in every fight, and no one scored a point or advantage on me. It was a good test for me for today and for my next goals. I'm back in the game!” Another standout of the event was Clay Mayfield, who won medium-heavyweight gold with and without the gi along with silver and bronze medals in the gi and no-gi open class divisions, respectively.

In the black belt adult female division, Bruna Ricalde won gold after her only match in the open class. Ultimately, the eighth edition of the Toronto Open was a resounding success, with Jiu-Jitsu For Life Team and Atlas Jiu-Jitsu - BJJ Revolution Team claiming the team championships, and Joao Gabriel Rocha delivering an unforgettable performance.

2023 Toronto Open team results:

Jiu-Jitsu For Life Team

Cicero Costha Canada

Atlas Jiu-Jitsu - BJJ Revolution Team

2023 Toronto Open No-Gi team results:

1.   Atlas Jiu-Jitsu - BJJ Revolution Team

2.   Jiu-Jitsu For Life Team

3.   Tri-Star Montreal