UFC BJJ has officially announced a major shift in its approach, revealing plans to launch its first-ever open tournaments in 2026.

Up until now, the promotion has focused entirely on professional competition, much like its parent brand in MMA.
However, this new initiative marks the first time UFC BJJ will open its doors to athletes of all skill levels, including amateurs.

Unlike MMA, where talent development often happens through structured platforms like Dana White’s Contender Series and The Ultimate Fighter, Jiu-Jitsu has historically relied on tournament circuits as the primary path for progression.

From beginners to elite competitors, most athletes gain experience by competing in open brackets across different belt and age divisions.
UFC BJJ now appears to be embracing that model, using tournaments as both a development tool and a way to identify rising talent for its growing roster.

While this is new territory for UFC BJJ, other organizations have already explored similar formats.

Promotions like Polaris have hosted open tournaments and even used them to identify future contenders, while the ADCC Open circuit has long served as a proving ground for athletes looking to gain experience under elite rulesets.

Dana White said the following in his announcement:

UFC BJJ is officially launching their opens, the official entry-point into the UFC BJJ competitive platform.

These open tournaments give athletes of all ages and skill levels the chance to compete under the UFC BJJ banner and begin their journey from the local mats to the biggest stage in the sport.
Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned vet, or chasing your shot at a championship, UFC BJJ Opens are your opportunity to prove yourself and possibly win a world title some day.

So UFC BJJ Opens are coming to cities across the country this fall.

 

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