2020 has been an incredibly difficult year for every aspect of the BJJ community as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, so an awards ceremony is just what we need to lighten the mood. With gyms all around the world facing closures for extended periods, in some cases sadly permanently, and promotions facing the difficult challenge of putting on events without crowds or under heavy restrictions, it’s a miracle that the sport has managed to persist regardless. As such, those that have managed to excel in such a difficult time deserve recognition for their stellar efforts in one of the most challenging times.
The awards have been decided by our entire staff over the Christmas period and have resulted in more than a few arguments between us. The only requirements we set in place for any awards was that any nominee for a Grappler of the Year award would need to have competed in at least five matches throughout the year, and the relevant period for judging is January 1st 2020 to December 31st 2020. Without further ado, let’s reveal the winners for our 2020 BJJ Awards:
Collective BJJ Awards 2020
Promotion of the Year
Fight Card of the Year
Who’s Number One: Gordon Ryan v Matheus Diniz
Match of the Year
Garry Tonon v Dante Leon at Who’s Number One
Brand of the Year
Individual BJJ Awards 2020
Submission of the Year
Kade Ruotolo defeats PJ Barch by Buggy Choke in the CJJ Lightweight World Championships
MMA Submission of the Year
A.J. Mckee defeats Darrion Caldwell by Neck Crank at Bellator 253.
Male Breakout Grappler of the Year
Female Breakout Grappler of the Year
BJJ Personality of the Year
Male Grappler of the Year (No Gi)
Male Grappler of the Year (Gi)
Female Grappler of the Year (Gi & No Gi)
To see how the BJJ community closed out 2020 in style, click here.
