The most exciting event in the world of competitive grappling is just up ahead. With it we preview the 88kg division!
This division is quite stacked but one notable absence is Yuri Simoes – he’s moved to the 99kg division in order to seek his 2nd ADCC title.
First names that come to mind looking at the bracket are Leandro Lo who has been on an incredible streak all year with a huge transformation to boot.
In the unlikely clash of worlds he’s met another prospect from this division Gordon Ryan – who went through his own incredible transformation this year.
Even tho the two faced off already the entire community is buzzing about the outcome of the match – when it counts and an ADCC title stands on the line.
Notably one other competitor not to be underestimated is Keenan Cornelius. Atos black belt is one of the most respected across the board and he’s trained vigorously in the Andre Galvao camp in order to prepare for the occasion.
Keenan might be playing catch up as he’s suffered an injury of the knee earlier in the year.
Even though these 3 are all powerhouses one name not to be underestimated is Rustam Chsiev who earned a bronze in 2015 and hasn’t shied away from appearing at EBI and even defeated Rafael Lovato Jr last time. His unique blend of European wrestling and submission skills will make all of his fights riveting to watch.
Dillon Danis will also be trying to make a name for himself in this division. Having recently grappled Garry Tonon from 77kg division and losing it’s unclear how Dillon plans to keep up with the bigger guys.
List of -88kg competitors:
- Craig Jones (Australia) – 1st Asian Trial winner
- Jesse Urholin (Finland) – 1st European Trial winner
- James Brasco (USA) – 1st North American Trial winner
- Murilo Santana (Brazil) – 1st South American Trial winner
- Kaynan Casemiro Duarte (Brazil) – 2nd South American Trial winner
- Kit Dale (Australia) – 2nd Asian Trial winner
- John Salter (USA) – 2nd North American Trial winner
- Piotr Marcin Frechowicz (Poland) – 2nd European Trial winner
- Romulo Barral (Brazil) – Invited
- Keenan Cornelius (USA) – Invited
- Gordon Ryan (USA) – Invited
- Pablo Popovich (USA) – Invited
- Alexandre Ribeiro (Brazil) – Invited
- Leandro Lo (Brazil) – Invited
- Dillon Danis (USA) – Invited
- Rustam Chsiev (Russia) – Invited
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
