Larissa Dias de Almeida is poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming Ft. Lauderdale International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2026, entering both the gi and no-gi competitions. This strategic move, mirrored by the legendary Roberto de Abreu Filho, highlights a compelling trend among top-tier athletes to stack events in a short window, signaling their intent to dominate their respective divisions and kickstart their season with a bang.
Dias, a formidable force in the female super-heavyweight division, enters the tournament with an impressive Elo rating of 1792, placing her among the top 50 competitors globally at #48. Her career boasts an astounding 101 gold medals and a total of 112 medals, a testament to her consistent excellence on the mats. Representing Elementum Jiu Jitsu, Dias is a multiple-time world and Pan champion, having secured the IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in 2022 and again in 2025 and 2026 in the heavyweight division. She also claimed the Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championship in 2023, 2025, and 2026. Her bronze medal at the 2024 World Championship further underscores her sustained presence at the sport's pinnacle. Known for her relentless pressure, control, and a potent leg attack game, including a favored toe hold, Dias is expected to bring a high-octane performance to both the gi and no-gi brackets. Her decision to compete in both formats at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale on October 17, 2026, sets the stage for her to potentially double her gold medal count for the event, asserting her dominance in the super-heavyweight category.
Cyborg Abreu's Anticipated Return and Double Entry
Joining Dias in the double-entry strategy is the iconic Roberto de Abreu Filho, widely known as “Cyborg” Abreu. A true veteran of the sport, Abreu will compete in the men's ultra-heavyweight division in both the gi and no-gi championships. With an Elo rating of 1595 and ranked #124, Cyborg brings a wealth of experience and a storied career to the mats. He holds an impressive 48 career gold medals and 74 medals overall, representing the renowned Fight Sports team.
Cyborg Abreu is celebrated for his innovative and dynamic style, particularly his signature “tornado guard” position, which has become a staple in high-level grappling. His resume includes an incredible seven No-Gi World Championship titles and an ADCC World Championship in 2013, solidifying his status as one of the most accomplished grapplers of his generation. His entry into the Ft. Lauderdale International Open marks a highly anticipated return to IBJJF competition. Following a three-year suspension by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) that began in January 2023, Abreu is now eligible to compete, and his presence is sure to electrify the ultra-heavyweight division. Fans will be eager to see if the legendary Cyborg can reclaim his dominant form and add more gold to his extensive collection in both gi and no-gi formats.
Implications for the Ft. Lauderdale Open
The simultaneous entries of Larissa Dias de Almeida and Roberto de Abreu Filho elevate the prestige and excitement surrounding the Ft. Lauderdale International Open. While they compete in different gender and weight categories, their presence signals a high level of competition across the board. Dias's consistent performance and her pursuit of double gold will undoubtedly inspire her Elementum Jiu Jitsu teammates and challenge her opponents to bring their absolute best. Similarly, Cyborg Abreu's return to the IBJJF stage, after a period of absence, is a major storyline that will draw significant attention. His experience and unique approach to grappling will make him a formidable contender in the ultra-heavyweight division, and his matches are sure to be highlights of the event. The Ft. Lauderdale International Open is shaping up to be a must-watch event, showcasing elite talent and intense competition across both gi and no-gi disciplines.
Entry list — elite black belts
| Athlete | Event | Division |
|---|---|---|
| Larissa Dias… | Ft. Lauderdale International… | Super-Heavy |
| Larissa Dias… | Ft. Lauderdale International… | Super-Heavy |
| Roberto de… | Ft. Lauderdale International… | Ultra-Heavy |
| Roberto de… | Ft. Lauderdale International… | Ultra-Heavy |
Elo and career medal counts from bjjmetrics. Entries are IBJJF black belt adult divisions only.
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