The UK has become a hotspot for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) enthusiasts, with a plethora of competitions sprouting across the nation.
From local tournaments to major events, the BJJ competition calendar in the UK is packed with opportunities for practitioners of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a newbie looking to test your skills, there's something for everyone. Let's delve into the annual BJJ competitions in the UK, segmented by Men's, Women's, and Kids' events.
Men's Competitions
For the gentlemen grapplers, the UK offers a variety of tournaments to showcase their skills. From the highlands of Scotland to the bustling streets of London, here's a rundown of some must-attend events:
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Scottish Open - Motherwell, Scotland: A prestigious event that attracts some of the best in the business. If you're looking to compete against top-tier talent, this is the place to be.
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Devon BJJ Open - Plymouth, England: Nestled in the beautiful city of Plymouth, this competition offers both Gi and No-Gi categories, catering to a wide range of fighters.
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Roll Models 15 Gi/No-Gi - Stoke-on-Trent, England: A perfect blend of traditional and modern BJJ, with both Gi and No-Gi events. Don't forget to check out the latest men's BJJ Gi collections before you step on the mat.
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Grand Slam - London, UK: One of the major Jiu-Jitsu tournaments in the UK, the Grand Slam is a spectacle of technique and strategy. It's an event that shouldn't be missed.
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Empire Grappling 20 - Manchester, UK: Manchester isn't just famous for its football; it's also a hub for BJJ. This event is a testament to the city's grappling prowess.
"BJJ is not just a sport; it's a lifestyle. And the UK has embraced this lifestyle with open arms." - Anonymous BJJ Enthusiast
Women's Competitions
For the fierce female fighters, the UK BJJ scene is vibrant and welcoming. Here are some competitions that cater specifically to women:
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All Stars BJJ Europeans: A continental event that sees participation from female fighters across Europe. A great platform to test your skills against international talent.
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Empire Grappling: Lancashire Open - Manchester, UK: Another gem from Manchester, this event is known for its high level of competition and camaraderie. Ladies, make sure you're dressed for success with the latest women's BJJ Gi collections.
Kids Competitions
Nurturing the next generation of BJJ practitioners, the UK has a slew of competitions tailored for kids:
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BJJ Junior National Gi Championships - Wolverhampton, England: A premier event for the young guns, this championship is a breeding ground for future BJJ stars.
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BJJ Junior National No-Gi Championships - Wolverhampton, England: The No-Gi counterpart of the above event, it's a testament to the versatility of BJJ in the UK.
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Flashback Editions Summer 2023 - Kids - Bournemouth, UK: A summer special event that's perfect for kids to enjoy and compete in a friendly environment. Parents, ensure your kids are competition-ready with the kids BJJ Gi collections.
The Big Leagues
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Sub-Pocalypse - Norwich, England: Known for its electric atmosphere and high-stakes matches, Sub-Pocalypse has quickly become a fan favorite. The event features both Gi and No-Gi matches, attracting some of the biggest names in the sport.
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Down Right Sloppy Leg Locks: Secret Strangle Club - High Wycombe, UK: A unique event that focuses on the intricate world of leg locks and strangles. It's a treat for the purists and a great learning experience for the uninitiated.
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Grappling Industries Birmingham - Birmingham, UK: A part of the global Grappling Industries circuit, this event in Birmingham is a testament to the city's burgeoning BJJ scene.
"In the world of professional Jiu-Jitsu, every move counts, every grip matters, and every second is a battle." - Renowned BJJ Coach
Seminars & Camps
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866 Jiu Jitsu and Wellness Camp - York: More than just a competition, this camp offers a holistic approach to BJJ. From technique workshops to wellness sessions, it's a complete package for any BJJ enthusiast.
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BJJ SummerWeek Jiu Jitsu Camp - Sardinia, Italy: While not in the UK, this camp is a popular choice for many British fighters. A week-long retreat in the picturesque landscapes of Sardinia, combined with top-notch BJJ training - what more could one ask for?
Special Mentions
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ADCC UK National Championships 2023 - London, UK: Part of the prestigious ADCC circuit, this championship is the pinnacle of No-Gi grappling in the UK. The event attracts international stars and is a must-watch for any BJJ fan.
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ALLSTARS Expo - London: A grand celebration of BJJ, the ALLSTARS Expo is more than just a competition. From exhibition matches to seminars by BJJ legends, it's a festival that celebrates the art of Jiu-Jitsu.
Local Gems
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Surrey Open BJJ 2023 - Guildford, UK: A staple in the BJJ competition calendar, the Surrey Open offers a platform for local talent to shine. With categories ranging from white to black belt, it's an inclusive event that celebrates the diversity of BJJ.
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Sussex Open - Summer Edition - Brighton, UK: Set against the backdrop of the vibrant city of Brighton, the Sussex Open is a summer extravaganza that attracts fighters from all over the UK.
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Dorset and Hants Open - Bournemouth: A testament to the growing BJJ scene in the south of England, this open tournament is a must-attend for fighters in the region.
"Local tournaments are where dreams begin, where young fighters take their first steps, and where legends are born." - Local BJJ Instructor
Unique BJJ Events
- Neon Inter-Club 2: Summer Edition - Southampton, UK: Breaking away from the traditional format, this inter-club event promotes camaraderie and friendly competition. It's a refreshing change from the high-stakes world of professional BJJ.
- OVA Grappling Youth Open 4 - Croydon: Tailored specifically for the youth, this event is a breeding ground for future champions. It's heartwarming to see the next generation take to the mats with such enthusiasm.
- Pro Sport Grappling South West Pro - Bristol: Merging the worlds of professional sports and BJJ, this event in Bristol is a unique blend of athleticism and technique.
Wrapping Up
The UK's BJJ scene is a rich tapestry of events, from the glitz and glamour of professional tournaments to the heart and soul of local competitions.
Whether you're a seasoned black belt or a white belt taking your first steps, there's a place for you in this vibrant community. And as you embark on your BJJ journey, remember to gear up with the best from made4fighters.com.
In the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions in the UK, from the Scottish Highlands to the southern coasts, there's a story waiting to be told, a match waiting to be fought, and a champion waiting to rise. Here's to the art, the sport, and the community of BJJ in the United Kingdom. Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you make a living competing in BJJ?
While it's possible to make a living competing in BJJ, it's not common for most practitioners. The top-tier athletes with consistent wins at major tournaments, sponsorships, and additional income streams like seminars, online courses, and affiliations can earn a comfortable living. However, for the average competitor, solely relying on tournament winnings might not be sustainable. Many BJJ athletes supplement their income by teaching classes, hosting seminars, or opening their own academies.
What is the prize money for the BJJ competition?
Prize money varies significantly across BJJ competitions. While local and smaller tournaments might offer modest cash prizes or none at all, major events like the ADCC or certain IBJJF tournaments can offer substantial prize money, especially for absolute division winners or special invitational events. It's always a good idea to check the tournament's official website or contact the organizers for specific prize details.
Do I need to qualify before entering BJJ tournaments?
For most local and regional tournaments, there's no qualification process; you can simply register, pay the fee, and compete. However, some elite-level competitions or championships might require a qualification process, either through points accumulated in other tournaments, winning specific events, or through invitation. Always check the tournament's registration guidelines to be sure.
Are BJJ competitions split into belt divisions?
Yes, BJJ competitions are typically split into belt divisions to ensure competitors face opponents of similar skill levels. Within each belt division, there are further subdivisions based on weight classes. This structure ensures that matches are as fair and competitive as possible.
Can white belts compete in BJJ?
Absolutely! Many tournaments have divisions specifically for white belts. Competing as a white belt can be a valuable learning experience, offering insights into areas of improvement and providing a taste of the competitive side of BJJ. Just ensure you're familiar with the tournament's ruleset and have adequately prepared for the competition.
Is 40 too old to compete in BJJ?
Absolutely not! BJJ is unique in that it caters to practitioners of all ages. Many tournaments have "Masters" or "Seniors" divisions specifically for older competitors. While you might not be competing against 20-year-olds, there's a vibrant community of older grapplers who actively compete. It's essential to listen to your body, train smart, and ensure you're in good physical condition.