Michelle Estrada has just become the first woman to earn a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under two-time ADCC champion JT Torres.
At the IBJJF No Gi World Championship 2025, Estrada captured gold in the Master 1 brown belt light-featherweight division, fighting through a three-match bracket to claim the title.
The victory also completed a steady climb at the event: silver in the same division the year prior, and a gold medal at purple belt the year before that.
Outside of IBJJF events, Estrada has quietly built a reputation on the U.S. no-gi superfight circuit.
Appearances on shows such as Finishers Sub-Only and Emerald City Invitational allowed her to test herself against experienced opposition in high-pressure formats, where she delivered great performances and important wins.
Estrada’s development has taken place under Torres’ guidance since her blue belt days, training at Essential BJJ alongside world-class athletes including Ffion Davies and Jessica Crane.
The news of the promotion were shared via social media:
We’re so excited to see what’s coming next for you, Michelle! Thank you for representing us with all of your hard work.
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