Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Rio: long list of black belt stars among over 2,300 athletes set to compete in Brazil

The 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Tour Rio is already a historic event even before the first athlete steps on the mats of the Arena Carioca 1. With over 2,300 athletes, the event has broken all the records of previous editions, with competitors of all ages and skill levels testing their skills for three days.

The black belt division alone will feature some of the best competitors in the game today. Stars are flying from all over the world to compete in Rio and write their name in history while fighting for their share of over $120,000 in prizes.

The list of names includes former and current ADWPJJC champions such as Mayssa Bastos (49kg), Amal Anjahid (55kg), Talita Alencar (55kg), Bianca Basilio (62kg), Isaque Bahiense (85kg), Erberth Santos (110kg). The list also includes ADGS champions that are once again on the run for the gold medal in their divisions, such as Amanda Nogueira (55kg), Samantha Cook (70kg), Gabrieli Pessanha (90kg), Jorge Nakamura (56kg), Hiago George (62kg), João Gabriel de Sousa (62kg), Jaime Canuto (77kg), Diego Ramalho (85kg), Rudson Mateus (94kg), Ricardo Evangelista (110kg).

The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Rio kicks off this Friday, November 16 and wraps up on Sunday, November 18. Click here for more info. Follow the complete coverage on the Instagram @ADWJJT. You can watch all over the world on Flo Grappling. Click here for more info on the live stream.