Filipino jiu jitsu artists flexed their might and collected 33 medals – 13 of them golds – in the Sports Jiu-Jitsu International Federation (SJJIF) World Jiu Jitsu Championship 2025 and No-Gi Championship in Chiba, Japan over the weekend.
Joson Tessa was impressive as she struck two golds while Jeon Dela Cruz also reigned in his event to earn raves from almost everybody.
Tessa beat Aina Fugisawa of Evox BJJ on points to clinch the gold in the Gi Female Gray Kid 5 Light Feather. She then annexed the Nogi Female Gray Kid 5 Light Feather by beating Sawka Lilly of Hi Grade Jiujitsu on points for a twin-kill.
De La Cruz, on the other hand, subdued Tomura Eishin of Carpe Diem Yokohoma to take the gold in the Gi Male Gray Kid 3 Rooster.
Meantime, Deftac-Six Blades Jiujitsu Kids Team accounted for 10 of the 13 golds to rule the 2025 ASJJF World Championships. It also collected 10 silvers and 13 bronze medals while Impacto BJJ placed second with 10 golds, five silvers and eight bronze medals.
But the day definitely belonged to Callum Roberts in the largest Jiujitsu tournament ever held in Asia, as he triumphed in three categories to underscore the Philippines’ huge progress in the sport.
Roberts turned back Nakamura Goki of Infight Japan via straight arm lock in the Gi Ultra Heavyweight Male Blue (Adults 18) class.
Roberts then overpowered Nakahara Gustavo of Carlos Toyota BJJ via back take Colla Choke in the Gi Open Weight Male Blue (Adults).
As if that was not enough, Roberts, a member of the PH Team, a Gi and NOgi World Champion and an Absolute Champion too, also dominated the No-Gi Ultra Heavyweight Male Blue (Adults 18), stamping his class over Pchelnikov Nikita of ZR Team Blagoveshcensk with a vicious Arm Triangle.
“We are thrilled to announce our monumental achievement as we emerged as the OVERALL CHAMPIONS in both GI and NO GI categories at the largest Jiujitsu tournament ever held in Asia!,” said Alvin Aguilar of DEFTAC in his facebook post.
“With over 300 teams and 5000 entries participating from all corners of the globe, our kids team came out on top, showcasing the incredible talent and hard work of our athletes,” added Aguilar.
Carlos Toyota BJJ settled for third among five international clubs with 6-6-8 gold-silver-bronze tally.
“This victory is a testament to the dedication and passion of our fantastic chapter heads, coaches, parents, and, of course, our talented athletes. Together, we have built a supportive community that fosters success and excellence,” said Aguilar.
