Adele Fornarino is poised for a highly-anticipated return to the IBJJF No-Gi World Championship. The 2023 World Silver Medalist is demonstrably in top form, having secured double gold at both the London Fall Open and the Pan Pacific No-Gi events this year. Fornarino brings a wealth of experience and elite athleticism to Las Vegas, aiming to capture her first black belt No-Gi World Championship.

“There are some excellent girls in my division that I haven’t yet had the chance to face, and to me that’s super exciting,” Fornarino stated. “But to be the first Australian to bring home an IBJJF No-Gi black belt World Title would be incredible.”

The Australian standout, guided by long-time instructor David Hart, first made waves internationally during her brown belt career, which culminated in a World Championship gold in 2022. Fornarino employs a fan-friendly, dynamic style, constantly hunting submissions with her seemingly impenetrable guard. Her balanced attack, characterized by intricate arm and leg threats, highlights the evolution of her submission game. As Adele explained, “When people started to figure out that I liked upper body attacks, they became more defensive of their upper body, which opened up opportunities on the lower body.” Opponents must now remain vigilant against Adele’s signature Choi-bar setups and devastating straight ankle lock pressure.

December will mark two years since Fornarino’s last official IBJJF major competition. During this period, her game has continued to evolve and elevate. In two IBJJF events this year, Adele holds an unblemished record of 5-0, with all five matches ending in submission. The Australian athlete’s mindset remains steadfast ahead of the 2025 No-Gi World Championship. “For me, I try and sharpen all the tools available to me,” she noted. “The more dangerous I make my game, the harder it becomes to stay safe.”

Impressively, the featherweight phenom has frequently moved up in weight to maintain a demanding schedule and secure high-level matches.  Thus, Adele expressed her eagerness to compete in the division, saying, “I’m excited to compete against people my weight because it’s been a while.”

The female featherweight division at the No-Gi World Championship features a star-studded lineup. Ana Mayordomo, the young Spanish star, is riding a wave of momentum into the year’s final major event. Ana presents a significant threat to the field as a well-rounded submission artist with two major titles secured this year. Representing Caio Terra Association, Thaynara Victoria and Beatriz Campos bring strong résumés and extensive championship experience to the bracket. Additionally, AOJ product Emily Nicholson returns to the No-Gi Championships after earning a bronze medal at last year’s event. Despite a highly competitive bracket, Fornarino remains a favorite to compete for World honors.

The IBJJF is pleased to welcome Adele Fornarino back to the premier No-Gi event of the year, as the 26-year-old appears to be firmly in the prime of her career. “I want to gain as many titles in as many different weight divisions as I can. I have my eye on all of it,” she declared. Regarding her expectations for 2026, Fornarino’s confidence is unwavering: “My aim for next year is to continue my run of being undeniable.”