Sunday, the 24th, the West Coast World Pro Jiu-Jitsu Cup tryouts take place in Santa Cruz, California.
And, from the list of athletes confirmed to participate, there will be some truly memorable matches in determining who gets the all-expense-paid trips to the United Arab Emirates.
In the purple to black belt divisions, all signs point to the battle being between Raul Castillo, Ricardo Barros, Carlos Melo and rookie Nathan Mendelsohn, not to mention the giant Jarrod Bunch.
The Gracie family will be well represented, with Clark Gracie (BJJ Revolution) and Rorion’s son Reylon, who promises to stir things up.
At white to blue belt, keep your eyes on brothers Christian and Christopher Broadnax, of Nova União.
Now, sparks will fly in the female division. Current absolute world champion Lana Stefanac (Trinity BJJ) will have her work cut out for her, with new black belt Katrina Weilbacher (Paragon) in the running, as well as Valeri Worthington (BJJ Revolution).
At lightweight, Tammy Griego (Gracie Barra) and Mackenzie Dern (Gracie Humaita) are a couple of names to stand out.
You aren’t going to miss this one, will you?
The day preceding the event, the 23rd, there will be a rules seminar led by Alvaro Mansur from 4 to 7 pm.
For greater information, check out www.abudhabibjj.com.