The next generation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu talent isn’t coming—they’re already here. From dominant ADCC trials to IBJJF podiums and breakout performances on the pro circuit, these under-20 athletes are redefining the landscape of modern grappling.
Whether you’re a hardcore competitor or casual fan, these are the names you need to know. The new wave of talent is fast, technical, fearless—and they’re just getting started.
Cole Abate (20) – The AOJ Prodigy
Cole Abate made international headlines when he won the ADCC East Coast Trials at just 16 years old. A student of the Mendes brothers at Art of Jiu Jitsu, Cole has a smooth, calculated game that makes him dangerous in both gi and no-gi. Now a black belt, he’s racked up multiple IBJJF titles and regularly competes against seasoned professionals.
Mica Galvão (20) – The Amazonian Phenom
Hailing from Manaus, Brazil, Mica Galvão was promoted to black belt at the age of 17 and went on to win the IBJJF World Championship in record time. Despite a brief suspension, Mica returned to take silver at ADCC 2022. His hybrid style blends pressure passing and explosive submissions with technical finesse.
Jozef Chen (20) – The B-Team Technician
One of the most cerebral young athletes in the game, Jozef Chen represents B-Team Jiu-Jitsu and has impressed with his precision and composure. After medaling at multiple ADCC Trials and dominating European circuits, Jozef is carving out a name as one of the smartest tacticians of his generation.
Dorian Olivarez (18) – The Dual Threat
Dorian Olivarez is equally lethal in wrestling and jiu-jitsu. In 2023, he won the ADCC East Coast Trials at just 17, earning his spot at the ADCC World Championships with an impressive 43% submission rate. Also a U20 national wrestling champ, Dorian’s ability to blend takedowns with high-pressure jiu-jitsu makes him a rare talent.
Helena Crevar (17) – The Submission Queen
New Wave Jiu-Jitsu’s Helena Crevar has emerged as one of the top female prospects in the sport. Known for her aggressive submissions and high fight IQ, she became the youngest competitor to earn a spot at the 2024 ADCC World Championships. She’s faced and beaten adult-level black belts before even turning 18. Check out Helena’s full profile here.
Achilles Rocha (17) – The Legacy Continues
Achilles Rocha, son of BJJ veteran Vagner Rocha, is living up to the family name. Competing in the 88kg division at the 2024 ADCC Worlds, he’s already racked up high-level wins in IBJJF and WNO events. His gritty, aggressive style mirrors his father’s, but with a fresh, technical twist.
Cassia Moura (18) – The Meteoric Rise
Cassia Moura shocked the BJJ community by earning her black belt within a year after beginning to compete in the adult division. She claimed gold at the IBJJF Worlds 2024 with mature, calculated performances. Cassia’s blend of athleticism and technical dominance has her set to become one of Brazil’s next global champions.
Nia Blackman (20) – The European Sensation
Based out of the UK and representing CheckMat, Nia Blackman took double gold at the 2023 European No-Gi Championships. She has also qualified for ADCC 2024, where she’ll be among the youngest in the women’s division. Her strong wrestling base and aggressive top game make her one of Europe’s top contenders.
Final Thoughts
The new generation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu talent is rewriting the rulebook. These under-20 athletes are competing and winning at levels previously reserved for seasoned veterans. They’re faster, sharper, and training in environments that push elite-level development from a young age.
Expect to see these names on major podiums for years to come—and don’t be surprised if some of them become the faces of jiu-jitsu’s next golden era.
Have another rising star we should watch? Drop their name in the comments and let us know who’s next!
