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The Crown returned on November 18, 2024, bringing with it high-level jiu-jitsu and a night of thrilling matches. The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation's (IBJJF) marquee event continues its mission to elevate gi jiu-jitsu into a professional, prize-heavy platform, akin to its no-gi counterparts. While the event boasted standout performances, it wasn’t without its controversies, as passivity and stalling led to disqualifications that raised eyebrows in the community.
Featherweight Division (Male): Diego Pato Steals the Show
The featherweight division redeemed itself after a lackluster 2023. Diego "Pato" Oliveira proved his dominance, showcasing his versatility with both lapel guard control and aggressive passing. Competing in a weight class above his own, Pato’s masterful performance solidified him as the Pound-for-Pound leader of 2024. His final victory, a choke from the back against Joao Mendes, was the cherry on top of an incredible night.
Notable Results:
Quarterfinals: Oliveira def. Osvaldo Moizinho (6x4)
Semifinals: Oliveira def. Jamil Hill-Taylor (18x0)
Final: Oliveira def. Mendes via choke from back
Lightweight Division (Female): Brianna Ste-Marie’s Grit
In the women’s lightweight division, Brianna Ste-Marie edged out Janaina Lebre in a nail-biting final, avenging her 2023 World Championship loss. Ste-Marie’s close submission attempts and relentless pressure earned her the win by advantage. This division continues to showcase some of the most dynamic and entertaining matches of the event.
Notable Results:
Quarterfinals: Ste-Marie def. Jaine Fragoso (14x0)
Semifinals: Ste-Marie def. Gabi McComb via Amassa Pão choke
Final: Ste-Marie def. Lebre via advantage
Middleweight Division (Male): Murasaki’s Triumph Amidst Adversity
The middleweight division was a bittersweet affair. Tainan Dalpra, despite competing with a broken hand, dominated until an aggravated injury forced him to forfeit the final. Andy Murasaki, ever the professional, clinched the title but expressed his respect for Dalpra’s courageous effort. The division, although missing big names like Jansen Gomes and Mica Galvão, still delivered high-level jiu-jitsu.
Notable Results:
Quarterfinals: Dalpra def. Gabriel Galvão (8x2)
Semifinals: Dalpra def. Elijah Dorsey via armbar
Final: Murasaki won via Dalpra's injury forfeit
Heavyweight Division (Male): Wardzinski Stays Relentless
Adam Wardzinski emerged victorious in the heavyweight category after a night of tactful pressure and guard play. Though marred by double disqualifications in earlier rounds, Wardzinski’s aggressive yet calculated approach led him to a hard-fought win over Gustavo Batista in the final.
Notable Results:
Quarterfinals: Wardzinski def. Matheus Spirandeli (9x2)
Semifinals: Wardzinski def. Horlando Monteiro via choke from back
Final: Wardzinski def. Batista via advantage
Heavyweight Division (Female): Gabrieli Pessanha Dominates
Gabrieli Pessanha left no doubt about her superiority, finishing all her matches via rear-naked choke. Her precision and control showcased why she remains a force to be reckoned with in women's heavyweight jiu-jitsu.
Notable Results:
Quarterfinals: Pessanha def. Mayara Custodio via RNC
Semifinals: Pessanha def. Tamiris Silva via RNC
Final: Pessanha def. Melissa Cueto via RNC
Ultra-Heavyweight Division (Male): Erich Munis, The Technician
Erich Munis delivered one of the night’s most comprehensive performances, blending submissions, sweeps, and positional dominance to secure the ultra-heavyweight crown. Munis’ technical prowess was on full display, particularly in his final victory via arm-in Ezekiel choke against Marcus Ribeiro.
Notable Results:
Quarterfinals: Munis def. Kristof Szucs via straight ankle lock
Semifinals: Munis def. Pedro Machado (15x6)
Final: Munis def. Ribeiro via arm-in Ezekiel choke
The Path Forward: Improvements for The Crown
While The Crown 2024 succeeded in delivering elite-level competition, its tendency toward passivity among some competitors hindered its full potential. The double disqualifications in the heavyweight quarterfinals underscored the need for improved matchmaking and possibly rethinking the rule set to encourage a more action-packed pace. If addressed, The Crown could cement itself as the premier event in gi jiu-jitsu.
The IBJJF has made significant strides in professionalizing the sport, and with minor adjustments, The Crown could continue to elevate the jiu-jitsu community for years to come.
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