The biggest and most prestigious submission wrestling tournament in the world, the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club Submission Wrestling World Championship) will be held in Brazil in 2015.
The last time it was in Brazil was in 2003, in Sao Paulo. The event was originally planned to be held in the city of Manaus, in the heart of the Amazon forest, but for logistical reasons the event will now be held once again in Sao Paulo on Aug. 28-30.
Confirmed Superfights are Andre Galvao v Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu, Masters Superfights Renzo Gracie v Matt Hughes and Ze Mario Sperry v Ricardo Liborio.
As for now, confirmed invited competitors are 2013 ADCC Champions Rubens “Cobrinha”, Kron Gracie, Romulo Barral, Joao Assis, Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida, Michelle Nicolini and Gabi Garcia.
Winners of regional qualifiers are also automatic invitees.
The ADCC has also now started inviting top competitors.
According to the athlete’s websites Rafael Lovato Jr, Orlando Sanchez, Jeff Curran and UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson have received direct invitations.
“Bendo” is a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, and student of Augusto “Tanquinho”.
Henderson already participated in the Beijing ADCC, in 2013. At the time, the fighter went through Leozada Nogueira by 10-0, but in the next fight, was submitted by Otavio Souza and was eliminated.
Bia Mesquita and Mackenzie Dern were invited to participate and the two will enter the race for gold for the category up to 60 kg.
Current weight and absolute world champion, Bia was scheduled to participate in the world’s biggest Grappling tournament back in 2013. However, Leticia Ribeiro’s student suffered a thigh strain and had to undergo surgery days before the competition. Mackenzie, in turn, will also be newcomer in ADCC. The young fighter is in great form after starring in two thrilling fights with Gabi Garcia in the final of the absolute at the Pan American and European this year.
