The Washington D.C. open took place on Saturday June 25th at Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex. Elite competitors from all over the country converged on the nation’s capital for gi and no-gi divisions. There were many established black belts registered to compete, but it was two black belts making their debuts at the rank that had standout performances.

Renzo Gracie Academy’s Arthan Bandeira took gold in the adult male black belt open class. “I submitted all my fights and no points were scored on me,” said Arthan. “I’m really happy with my performance. It was my first tournament as a black belt and it was exactly what I prepared for. I’m looking forward to many more!” Arthan wasn’t the only new black belt who took gold in Washington D.C.

Corey Walker of Team Lloyd Irvin also had a fantastic performance. The rooster weight won the Worlds a few weeks ago as a brown belt and was ready to challenge himself at his new rank as soon as possible. “I had two matches today. I won both of them by two points. Overall I feel pretty good about my black belt debut but I’m not satisfied because I didn’t get any submissions and I made a few mistakes that I look forward to correcting.”

In the female black belt divisions, Maria Malyjasiak was the standout competitor, winning the black belt open class. “I had two fights and two submissions. I am happy with my performance and can't wait for another IBJJF open.” You can expect to see the 2022 Pan Champion back in action soon.

The no-gi divisions also went down on Saturday June 25th. Emilio Hernandez of Zenith BJJ won the featherweight division, defeating Christoph Sodbinow to take gold. He then jumped into the open class, where he beat Francisco Cuneo and Thiago Saldanha to earn his second gold medal of the day.

Renzo Gracie Academy took the overall team titles both with and without the gi.

Washington D.C. International Open Team Results:

1. Renzo Gracie Academy
2. Alliance
3. GF Team

Washington D.C. International Open No-Gi Team Results:

1. Renzo Gracie Academy
2. TDBJJ
3. Gracie Barra