The IBJJF Master International – North America 2024 took place on May 30th, 2024 and there was plenty of action on the mats, with some of the biggest legends in the sport competing alongside their fellow veteran grapplers. Wellington ‘Megaton’ Dias was probably the most famous figure at the event, and he entered the Master 6 divisions just one day before he was due to make his annual trip to compete at the IBJJF World Championship. Not only did Dias win a gold medal in the lightweight division in his age bracket but he also managed to win a gold medal in the absolute division as well.
There were quite a few big names competing in the men’s Master 1 divisions, with some of them still being active competitors at the highest level. Sergio Rios had the most successful day in that age bracket, as he won gold medals in both the medium-heavyweight division and the absolute division. Jaime Canuto was another popular competitor who left with two medals, winning the title at middleweight and earning a bronze medal in the absolute. Arnaldo Maidana was another big name in the tournament and he competed at super-heavyweight, where he also stood on top of the podium.
There was just as much talent in the women’s divisions of the IBJJF Master International – North America 2024 as well, with perhaps the most notable inclusion being former IBJJF world champion and professional MMA fighter Talita Nogueira. She entered the super-heavyweight division at Master 2 and stood on top of the podium yet again, despite having several talented opponents to go up against. There were some current top competitors in the brackets too though, with Amber Rymarz-Freitas winning a default gold at Master 1 roosterweight and Brenda Wunner taking home the gold medal in a tough Master 1 featherweight division. There was plenty for fans to enjoy throughout the day, and many of them would have got the opportunity to meet some big names in the sport.
