The most anticipated gi tournament of the year returns to the iconic Walter Pyramid in just a few days time, and it is no exaggeration to say that this is one of the most competitive editions of the tournament in its rich 25-year history.

The black belt class of 2021 is a who's who of top notch competitors, many of whom are likely to grace the top of black belt podiums in the coming months. Below are the athletes who earned the rank of black belt in December.

Day one of the IBJJF World Championships was filled with the action, submissions and incredible stories expected of an event of this caliber. Day two is sure to deliver as well, as the male purple and brown belts will take their place on the mats in search of the most coveted title in jiu-jitsu. With hundreds of competitors in search of just a few medals, we're guaranteed  thrilling action throughout the day.

An IBJJF Pans title, gold medals at No-Gi Pans and No-Gi Worlds, third place at the WNO Championship, and this weekend, the EUG 155 lb title. Diego “Pato” Oliveira is undoubtedly having the year of his career.