FloGrappling Awards: The Best Of 2016

2016 was the biggest and best year for jiu-jitsu, offering fans and followers more than ever before — huge events, incredible matches, standout performances, high drama, and much more.

Watch each of the nomination videos and relive the defining moments of 2016.

Winners will be judged by an expert panel consisting of Hywel Teague, Reid Connell, Chase Smith, Riccardo Ammendolia, and Shawn Williams. Fan votes will also count deciding toward the overall winner, as one "vote" among the members of the panel. 

The Panel

Hywel Teague is a jiu-jitsu black belt with nearly two decades of grappling experience. He earned his black belt in Brazil at the hands of esteemed figure Ricardo de la Riva. Fluent in Portuguese, he was one of the most influential foreigners to have worked as a jiu-jitsu journalist in Brazil before becoming known on the world stage for his work with BJJ Hacks and later FloGrappling. 

Riccardo Ammendolia is the first black belt ever promoted by the Mendes Brothers of Art of Jiu-Jitsu. Riccardo has worked in the jiu-jitsu industry since the late 90s, and was integral in holding the first professional superfight events in his native Canada. He focuses most on commentary and analysis, as well as teaching jiu-jitsu at Pura BJJ in Hamilton, Canada. 

Shawn Williams is a jiu-jitsu black belt under Renzo Gracie and the founder of 5 Star Martial Arts in Los Angeles. The creator of the famous "Williams guard", Shawn is equally known for his insightful commentary as he is for his technical skills. 

Reid Connell and Chase Smith are staff members of the FloGrappling team and travel the world covering jiu-jitsu and grappling events, where they witness first-hand from matside the biggest and best names in training and competition. 

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