2008 BJJ World Championships

The 2008 World Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Championships took place this last weekend, and although many struggle for top position, few make it at this level of competition.  Pan American Champion Andre Galvao steamrolled through the competition and won his division handily (even humiliating this opponent after he attempted an illegal heel hook), until he was stopped in the open weight category by Roger Gracie.  The highly touted Kron Gracie, son of the legendary Rickson Gracie, competed as a black belt for the first time, and was submitted in the first round by the eventual division champion, after an incredible win streak where he had submitted his opponents in 40 straight matches as a brown belt.  And check out this 16 year old purple belt phenom.  The level of skill in this sport continues to rise, which confirms that the art is alive and well.